Camp Lakewood has long been a favorite annual tradition for the oldest Academy students and provides an opportunity to grow in confidence and leadership skills. Last week, Seventh and Eighth Class students spent a few days away building a special sense of community through team-building activities, archery, challenge courses, ziplining and, of course, time around a campfire. Special thanks to Academy faculty for creating a truly memorable experience. Below students reflect about this time together.
Lakewood was an unforgettable experience. At first, things were new and scary. I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy my time at camp, but as soon as we got settled, I knew everything would be fine. After my time at Lakewood, I felt accomplished. We bonded, built friendships, developed better communication skills, and had an amazing time together. One time I especially felt uplifted (literally and figuratively) was the Alpine Tower. I didn’t make it to the top, but everyone was so supportive and happy for me. Lakewood allows you to go to your personal best, and know that everyone has your back, and you have theirs. I really look forward to next year, so we can make even more memories.
— Allison S. ’26
Lakewood was a great experience for me to build skills with others. Of all the activities, my favorite was the Alpine Tower, it was fun to climb to the top and look down. I enjoyed the challenge course because we all had to work together and make a strategy. Hanging out with friends and playing cards at the cabin was really nice… I am excited to go next year.
— Jackson V. ’26
Lakewood is one of the best trips I’ve ever been on. I’ve strengthened my friendships, learned a couple of things, and made lasting memories. Something I’ve learned is that communication is insanely important, along with talking ideas out, giving every idea a chance, and letting others speak. An awesome activity we did was Alpine Swing. Basically, you’re harnessed in, and you’re attached to a rope. Your classmates are pulling the rope, which pulls you up higher. When they let go, you go swinging. It was super fun, and I wish I could do it again! Something I remember was all the things we talked about at our cabin. It felt like we were truly a family, and I’ve definitely strengthened all my friendships.
— Naila A. ’25
To me, Lakewood was a fun experience that brought me closer to my classmates. I enjoyed the Challenge Course and Alpine Rescue because they taught me about communication and trying ideas even if you don’t think they will work. I loved the times when we just got to talk and enjoy each other’s company such as the bus rides and lunch. I also enjoyed the 8th grade campfire, where we looked back at the times we’ve spent with each other and all the memories we’ve made. I am thankful that Lakewood gave me the opportunity to spend time with my classmates and learn valuable life lessons.
— Ella B. ’25
One awesome memory I have is conquering the Alpine tower. I am extremely afraid of heights, but this year I made it my mission to make it to the top. When I finally accomplished it this year, I was so happy, excited, and relieved. Going forward, I think it’s possible I will be less afraid of heights. Another memory I will come to cherish was hanging out and spending quality time with my friends. Whether it was in the cabin, the campfire, or at the lodge, I always had a great time with my friends and I will remember those experiences at Camp Lakewood forever. I hope we continue to hang out after our journey at ASH. The final meaningful memory I had was exploring the idea of compassionate curiosity. I love the idea of instead of letting others down by saying “That’s a horrible idea!” when they make a suggestion, I can choose to be curious and think about other people’s feelings. I loved implementing compassionate curiosity with my classmates and said, “That’s a good idea, but I think we can improve on this.” Camp Lakewood was truly one of the best experiences I have had with my class. I hope we continue to all still make some good memories before we say farewell in May.
— Will S. ’25
I thought last year’s Camp Lakewood couldn’t beat this year’s, but I couldn’t be more wrong. The first activity required patience and strategy on a log which of course started the trip off strong. Of all the activities, the one that stood out the most was axe throwing as I did well. The memories that will stay with me forever are the late-night talks, scenery, and our intense poker matches, which I lost. Most of all, I loved the free time with my friends. What I learned and experienced was the importance of compassionate curiosity. Compassionate curiosity helped me let others express their concerns and ideas for an overall more affective plan. These experiences will stick with me and act through my life and my friends’ lives.
— Wyatt P. ’25
