With the school year ramping up, I’m so glad I was able to have a mini-vacation and participate in a weekend of hiking, hot-tubbing, cooking, laughing and bonding with my classmates. Last weekend the Women in Business club (WIB) held a mountain retreat, hosted at the family cabin of the club President, Juliane Katz-Leckey in the charming mountain town of Frisco, Colorado. The purpose of the retreat is to offer students a time to get to know each other better early in the school year, with an emphasis on strengthening the student support network for female MBAs among classmates. Male students were invited to join the retreat as well, and are always welcome at all WIB club events. The club seeks to raise awareness on issues affecting women in the field of business, to bring in relevant female speakers, to offer workshops, treks or other activities useful for female MBAs, and to provide a space where women know they are supported by one another as well as their male classmates.

The retreat was a huge success, with 17 students in attendance, both first and second years, three of them male classmates and the rest women. It was perfect fall weather: sunny and warm with golden aspen leaves glowing from the mountains encircling the town. The group went for a hike to the top of Mt. Royal, a dramatic peak whose trailhead we could hike to right from our front door! The hike offered stunning views to reward our efforts. Afterwards, there was down-time for studying, as well as a relaxing cocktail hour complete with cheese and crackers. The hot tub was a definite highlight, with first years and second years getting to share stories and laughs with one another. In the morning we carpooled home, feeling refreshed and ready to return to our studies.

This event is just one of many ways that I’ve benefitted from quality time with my classmates outside of the Koelbel business building. I’m lucky to be a part of a student community that is active and engaged both in our academic life, but also in building our community. I’m glad my classmates take time to explore and appreciate our incredible surroundings, all while celebrating the spirit of women in business!