8th Grade Field Studies - combining adolescent development with experiential education

Our 8th graders are coming back to campus after spending the past several days at Field Studies, at Black Diamond Camp in Auburn. This transformative capstone experience combines the excitement of outdoor adventures with meaningful life skills development. “It serves as both a celebration of their Middle School journey and a launchpad into the next chapter of their academic and personal growth,” explains José González, Director of Experiential Education. 

González, along with members of his team created a new framework for Field Studies that utilizes the principles established in the research of the well-regarded book Theoretical Foundations: Rites of Passage & Experiential Education by Arnold van Gennep (1909) and Victor Turner (1969)

Eighth graders spend several days intentionally building resilience, self-reliance, and group dynamics in order to: Celebrate the end of their Middle School journey; Develop independence and personal responsibility; Strengthen interpersonal and leadership skills through group living; and gain insights into high school life from Upper School peers.

“Through three days in the outdoors with peers and faculty mentors, students have the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone, take on new responsibilities, and form meaningful connections—all of which are essential for a successful start to Upper School. It’s not just a trip—it’s a carefully designed experience that reflects Overlake’s commitment to whole-child education, explains González.

"In my opinion, as 8th grade ATL (advisory team leader), I look forward to this trip," says Mindy McGrath. "The programming is always amazing and unique and gets students to push themselves a little out of their comfort zone. We get to play outside and learn more about the class’s leadership skills and resilience. It is always fun to get to see students outside of the traditional classroom and find out more about who they are." 

Check out these photos from this year's trip.