A new academic year is upon us! Once again, the PAFs prepared for this year’s adventures, challenges, and commitments by dedicating a week in mid-August to training, community service, and a weekend retreat. Carefully planned and executed by second year PAFs with help from the PAT, these activities oriented the newest cohort to the intricacies of the program in the greater context of graduate studies and professional development. Overall, the week allowed current PAFs to set expectations and goals for the year, showcase their contributions to the larger GW community in the process of learning from senior leaders, and, of course, bond with one another while having fun.
This summer’s training began in the middle of the week, giving PAFs two days to get settled into their placements before diving into the activities of the extended weekend. Training allowed the newest fellows to reflect on their own strengths and work styles and the ambassadorial opportunities that are available to them. However, the second years were not bored, as they were able to learn through teaching and benefit from three tremendous panel discussions from GW’s senior leadership, GW faculty and staff experts on diversity and community, and our own PAF alumni. Fellows and preceptors were also brought together for an enjoyable and productive luncheon.
Retreat began with a day of community service at the Capital Area Food Bank’s DC Warehouse where PAFs helped to sort food for distribution and also included a post-service reflection over lunch and a happy hour with PAF alumni. The next morning, the fellows and the PAT toured the Washington Monument and then departed for Bethesda, Maryland where they stayed for two nights. Expectations, goals, and committees were set after fruitful discussions and the full cohort grew closer over many activities, including a “Chopped” competition. Overall, a good time was had by all and the PAFs left Bethesda excited and prepared for the year ahead.