"So keep fightin' for freedom and justice, beloveds, but don't you forget to have fun doin' it. Be outrageous, ridicule the fraidy-cats, rejoice in all the oddities that freedom can produce. And when you get through kickin ass and celebratin' the sheer joy of a good fight, be sure to tell those who come after how much fun it was." Molly Ivins
Who can attend The Next Step?
Any UVM community (undergraduate or graduate student, staff, or faculty) may apply to attend the retreat. 65 students may attend. This number is generated based on the number of beds there are at the retreat site. We purposely look for participants who will represent a wide range of identities and personal experiences.
How do I apply to attend The Next Step?
The applications are all available on the forms section of this website. If you do not have computer access that allows you to print the application, please stop by the Student Life Office on the third floor of the Davis Center and we can help you there.
How do you select who participants and facilitates the retreat?
The Next Step Selection Committee, is comprised of 8-10 retreat alumni, logistics staff, and members of the Next Step Advisory Committee. The committee reviews all of the applications and makes decisions based on a variety of criteria.
For participants, the most important factors include involvement on campus, potential to both contribute to and learn from the retreat, and commitment to attendance. We are also looking for a balanced group of attendees including class standing at the university, academic major, past involvements, and personal identities. The effort you put into your application does matter - please don't assume someone on the committee will explain how great you are - we get so many applications we can only consider what you include.
For facilitators, it is very important that we have a balanced group. We want students, staff, and faculty from a variety of areas on campus, with a variety of experiences, and a variety of areas of expertise. The effort you put into your application matters! For a successful retreat, we do need facilitators who have some experience managing large groups, training on social justice material, and facilitating challenging conversations. Next Step provides training for facilitators, but the focus is on delivering the retreat curriculum, not necessary hard skills of how to facilitate.
How much does it cost to attend the retreat?
We ask participants to contribute $20 to attend the retreat. This helps us to cover the substantial costs of transportation, food, and lodging. However, no participant will be turned away for financial reasons. If you are unable to contribute these funds, please indicate so on your application.
Where is the retreat held?
The retreat is held at the Hulbert
Outdoor Center in Fairlee, VT, about 90 minutes away from
campus.
Last modified September 30 2009 12:28 PM
