I started with Cru as a transfer student from a Christian University in Florida. At my first Thursday night Cru Weekly Gathering, I made the big decision to sign up for Winter Retreat. I wasn’t quite sure what I was thinking because going into big crowds of people that I don’t know is really hard for me. But I decided to push myself out of my bubble and I am so glad that I did. I wasn’t completely sure what I was expecting going into winter retreat, all I know is that whatever expectations I had they were beyond met.

I went to Winter Retreat not really knowing anyone at Cru besides the few people that I met at the Weekly Gathering. The first night there I met many new people and made multiple connections with people that turned into great friendships. I have gotten connected with a community where I can be myself and who are supportive of each other. I also am glad that I found a community that puts God first. 

I was a pretty strong Christian going into Winter Retreat, but did struggle with giving up control in my life. Funny enough, we talked a lot about giving up control in our lives during Winter Retreat. During one of our quiet times I prayed that I could give up control and let the Lord lead my life and the whole time I was praying “Estonia” kept popping into my head. Little did I know that going to Winter Retreat with Cru would change my summer plans completely. The week after winter retreat I signed up for the Estonia summer missions and began my new journey of letting the Lord guide my life.