On Wednesday, February 5, all AHN high school students participated in a mission day, dedicated to growing their knowledge and helping the community. All freshmen attended a retreat at the Mary Help of Christians Center. Sophomores spent the morning at a college jumpstart session in the Performing Arts Center. Juniors volunteered at various organizations that help serve the community and provide resources to those in need. Additionally, seniors went to Plant City to volunteer at Robinson Elementary School and Turkey Creek Middle School.
When the freshmen attended their retreat at Mary Help of Christians, they began by attending Mass. Members of the MHC clergy later discussed how they could grow their faith as they continued their high school experience. The day continued with a variety of games and icebreaker activities to encourage bonding and connection throughout the freshmen class. As the retreat continued, the freshmen were accompanied by senior members of the Peer Ministry class. Peer Ministry is a religion class that is available to many seniors who want to be involved in planning and taking an active role in school Mass, retreats, and volunteer opportunities.
The seniors in Peer Ministry discussed the retreat’s theme of the day – how to “Bloom Where You Are Planted.” This discussion gave the freshmen additional insight on how to use their faith in order to thrive throughout high school and beyond. Overall, they learned about honesty, the importance of sisterhood, and depending on God during difficult times. Reese McArty (‘28) said, “I loved reconnecting with all the girls and expanding my relationships with my friends.”
For the sophomore’s college jump start, they learned about myths related to the college admissions process as well as attributes of a professional college application. They started their session by being introduced to the different members of the AHN college counseling department. The college counselors provided clarity surrounding the college admissions process and discussed how to find the right college.
Afterwards, a speaker from a college admissions department shared what aspects make a successful college application and which types of students colleges look for. Sophomores ended their day familiarizing themselves with the MAIA Learning app, which stores important information regarding high school accomplishments, college choices, and potential scholarships.
All junior students engaged in community service at local organizations around the Tampa Bay community. Some organizations juniors volunteered at include the Parc Center for Disabilities, Metropolitan Ministries, and the Community Food Pantry. After serving the community, juniors learned the importance of helping those in need and seeing God’s image in all people.
AHN seniors lent a helping hand at Robinson Elementary School and Turkey Creek Middle School in Plant City. Students organized the library, played games, and taught classes. They also helped busy teachers with additional tasks in the classroom that they may not have had time to otherwise accomplish.
Justine PeAguirre (‘25) recalls the experience fondly, stating, “My favorite part of the mission day was getting to see all of the kids and help out the teachers in the classroom.”
The elementary and middle school students were enriched during the experience, as they were able to interact with good role models who engaged in activities with them that were both educational and fun. Senior students had the opportunity to directly experience how their interactions with others impacts those around them. Together, seniors learned teamwork skills, communication, and how to be aware of the needs of people around them.
