A Career Discernment Retreat for LMU Students
What is your calling? The word “VOCARÉ” is derived from Latin, meaning “to call.” Take the space and time to explore your calling off-campus.
Discover VOCARÉ, an exclusive opportunity for LMU students to delve into their past, present, and future paths. This free immersive program focuses on career discernment, offering a reflective space where participants can engage with their peers, alumni, and staff.
Discover
VOCARÉ is a one-of-a-kind weekend retreat designed to help you reflect, explore, and connect as you navigate life during and after LMU. You’ll dive into engaging conversations, hands-on workshops, and candid advice from alumni and professionals who’ve walked a similar path.
But it’s not all career talk—expect scenic hikes, a location just 14 minutes from the beach, late-night s’mores under the stars, and even a visit to a llama farm (yes, really).
With lodging, transportation, and meals provided, all you have to bring is your curiosity, a pair of comfy shoes, and an open mind.
Fall 2025 Program Dates
Beginning: Friday, October 3rd (afternoon)
Ending: Sunday, October 5th (morning)
For More Information: Contact Thuy Le, Associate Director of Career Education, at thuy.le@lmu.edu.
What is Your Calling?
Whether you’re exploring post-LMU opportunities or seeking clarity on your professional journey, VOCARÉ provides real-life advice and diverse perspectives to guide your decision-making process. Join us for engaging discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, and connect deeply with the LMU community as you navigate your next steps. Lodging, transportation, and meals are provided.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s VOCARÉ Retreat. It was a weekend of reflection, exploration, and connection designed to help Lions discern their purpose and path.
The 2025 retreat has now concluded, and we’re so grateful to all our participants, facilitators, and alumni who made it an inspiring experience.
Stay tuned for 2026 Program Dates!
What participants have to say
“Initially I wanted to be a leader to ensure that VOCARÉ participants had an amazing experience like I did. I was not expecting to be so positively impacted by the retreat for a second time! Being a senior, I received beneficial and timely career advice and insights.”
~ Jermaine Johnson, ’19
Major: Marketing with Journalism & African-American Studies minors
“As a transfer student, VOCARÉ was one of the first events that made me feel part of the LMU community. I found it to be an amazing learning experience both as a participant and as a leader.”
~ Cynthia Orduna, ’19
Major: Studio Arts with an emphasis in Multimedia
- Walking Shoes
- Sunscreen
- First Aid Kit
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Insect Repellant
- Water Bottles
- Flashlight
- Swimsuit
- Beach Towels
The weather in Santa Barbara can vary from chilly in the early morning and evening, to quite warm during the day. Comfortable layered clothing is the best option for this type of climate. A warm jacket is recommended for the evenings.
Step 1: Complete the Interest Form linked at the top of this page.
Step 2: Keep an eye out for a confirmation email from Thuy Le—space is limited, so hang tight!
Step 3: Pack your bags and get ready to experience VOCARÉ!
Subject to change
Friday, October 3
- Afternoon: Meet at LMU & depart for El Capitan Canyon (transportation provided)
- Evening: Arrival, welcome dinner, and opening reflection
Saturday, October 4
- Morning through evening:
- Career exploration workshops
- Strengths-based activities
- Small group discussions
- Outdoor experiences and time for personal reflection
- Community dinner and campfire
Sunday, October 5
- Morning wrap-up session and next steps planning
- Midday departure from El Capitan
- Early afternoon return to LMU
The VOCARÉ Retreat is not the only opportunity for students to explore these topics. CPD staff are eager to help all students reflect on their values, interests and skills; discern their vocations and explore career options. If you would like to meet with a staff member, please log in to Handshake, click on the “Appointments” tab then “Schedule a New Appointment.”
A chance for you to explore…
- significant experiences in the classroom and beyond
- the values, relationships, social issues, and interests that are important to you
- your sense of purpose or vocation and where you are going with your life
A chance for you to meaningfully connect with…
- like-minded individuals exploring their next steps
- supportive faculty, staff, alumni employers, and administrators
- accomplished young alumni
A chance for you to learn about…
- the paths to vocational discernment and academic/career planning
- post-graduate options and opportunities
- possible academic and professional paths
A chance to take away…
- insights into your values, interests, and goals
- a stronger sense of purpose
- a foundation of knowledge and resources for future vocational and career exploration
