For more than three decades, the Freshman Orientation Adventure (9GOA) has kicked off the Episcopal Upper School experience with four unforgettable days outdoors. From camping and hiking to whitewater rafting, freshmen are challenged to step outside their comfort zones, try something new, and build authentic connections with their classmates. Students begin their Upper School journey by learning, exploring, laughing, and growing together.

9GOA is about more than adventure. It’s about discovering the impact each student can have on their peers, their grade, and the greater ESJ community. With the guidance and encouragement of junior and senior counselors, students learn to lean on one another, embrace challenges, and find their place in the Episcopal community. This year marked the 34th 9GOA experience, continuing a tradition that has become truly multigenerational. Alumni regularly point to 9GOA as one of their hallmark Episcopal experiences, and for some families, parents and students have now camped on the same sites, hiked the same trails, and rafted the same rivers!

At the heart of it all is a commitment to safety, connection, and belonging. Every challenge, campsite conversation, and stretch of whitewater offers an opportunity for students to discover something new about themselves and one another. It’s an experience designed to set the tone for the years ahead: that high school is not something students have to navigate alone, but a journey they take together. 

“This year’s 9GOA was a continuation of a beautiful tradition,” said Megan Wickenden ’06, 9GOA Director. “Episcopal freshmen bonded over whitewater rafting and hikes, sleeping outside and encountering nature in a meaningful way. Our Freshmen arrived back to campus more connected and excited for the years ahead.” 

Welcome to Upper School, Class of 2030!