A Weekend of Culture, Connection, and Discovery: BRIDGES Students Retreat to Kempton, PA

Over Easter weekend, a group of BRIDGES students stepped away from the bustle of campus life and into the scenic town of Kempton, Pennsylvania for a cultural retreat hosted by Spade International—a Christian organization dedicated to fostering community and cross-cultural understanding. The retreat, held from April 18–20, offered students a rare opportunity to explore faith-based traditions, participate in fun hands-on activities, and connect with peers from universities across Pennsylvania and New York.

The experience was rich with variety: students took part in Easter egg hunts, handcrafted jewelry, enjoyed international cuisine, and hiked the local trails. A highlight of the trip was a surprise visit to Crystal Cave—one of Pennsylvania’s oldest and most treasured natural attractions—where students learned about the geological history of the region while soaking in the stunning beauty of underground formations.

Beyond the activities, what made this retreat truly impactful was the spirit of inclusion and exchange. Events like this expose international students to aspects of American culture that might otherwise remain unfamiliar, while also providing a platform for them to share their own backgrounds and traditions. These experiences are more than just fun—they’re vital for building global awareness, empathy, and community.

For many international students, studying abroad is about more than academics. It’s about stepping into new cultures, expanding worldviews, and learning to navigate diversity with confidence and openness. This weekend retreat reminded us all how powerful cultural immersion can be—and how lasting the friendships formed in such moments truly are.