Class of 2029 forges friendships at Camp Mariah

In Ursuline’s Tully Gymnasium, circles of ninth graders sat cross-legged on the floor as Advisory leaders took attendance. Some students whispered with new classmates, while others scanned the room, still adjusting to their first week of high school.

Watching from across the gym, senior Madison Conolly ’26 stood ready to welcome the newest high schoolers into The Ursuline School community. Conolly, one of 42 Ursuline Connections leaders, is dedicated to making freshmen feel right at home. Her commitment captures the essence of Camp Mariah, Ursuline’s annual freshman orientation, a day built around connection, support, and friendship.

"Camp Mariah was a great way to connect with girls and make some friends early on.”
- Madison Conolly '26, Ursuline Connections leader

“I came here as a freshman from Riverdale and didn’t know anyone,” Madison recalled. “Camp Mariah was a great way to connect with girls and make some friends early on.”

On Friday, September 12, the Class of 2029 traveled to Fishkill, New York, for a day of team-building and school spirit. With the support of ninth-grade advisors, Connections student leaders, and the Personal Development team, students spent the day in their Advisory groups, sporting brightly colored T-shirts and taking on group challenges.

Carly D’Arpino, personal development coordinator, and Alyssa Prete, counselor, lead the Ursuline Connections program. Their enthusiasm filled the day’s events.

"Camp Mariah gives our ninth graders a chance to connect with classmates in a fun setting, discover each other's strengths, and see what's possible when they work together.”
- Carly D'Arpino, personal development coordinator

"Camp Mariah gives our ninth graders a chance to meet classmates in a fun setting, discover each other's strengths, and see what's possible when they work together," said D'Arpino.

Prete agrees, noting, "The team activities are about camaraderie and belonging, not being the fastest or the strongest.”

From rock-paper-scissors to problem-solving activities, the games emphasized collaboration over competition. A lunchtime barbecue gave girls the chance to sit anywhere, talk with new classmates, and spark new friendships.

Throughout the day, Connections leaders like Conolly kept energy high, guiding activities, cheering on their groups, and modeling Ursuline’s culture of sisterhood. Although they do not receive service hours, Connections leaders embrace their roles as mentors, determined to ensure that every ninth grader feels welcomed.

Conolly, who also works as a summer camp counselor in Mamaroneck, said she is excited to give back. “I recognize some of these girls from camp,” she said with a smile. “I really love leading groups and watching the girls connect.”

Her advice for the Class of 2029? “Be comfortable with change. High school is when everything changes, so just embrace it. It’s going to be a great time.”

More than a day outdoors, Camp Mariah serves as a gateway to high school life at Ursuline, where students form friendships that last well beyond freshman year. The tradition continues through generations of Ursuline girls, each class adding to the legacy of sisterhood that defines the Ursuline experience.