Bring Out Your Best: Two-Day Student Development & Leadership Retreat
At the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina in Old Saybrook, CT on August 3 & 4, 2026
This immersive two-day retreat helps rising 7th–12th grade students "bring out their best" by building the skills rarely taught in school—but essential for next level confidence, leadership, and long-term success.
Every student leaves with a customized Personal Development Strategic Plan, stronger speaking and interview skills, and a deeper understanding of their character strengths and leadership potential. Most importantly, they gain clarity about who they are, how to communicate with confidence, and how to show up authentically in new situations.
Your child will walk away with one of the most powerful tools for a life of impact: a clear sense of purpose—often called “finding your why.”
Whether preparing for school admissions, summer jobs, internships, or future leadership opportunities, this retreat gives students the confidence, clarity, and practical skills they need to succeed now and into the future.
A transformative experience that will prepare your student for the future with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
What Your Student will gain:
Every student leaves with:
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A customized Personal Development Strategic Plan (PDSP) they can put into action right away
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Stronger speaking, interviewing, and self-expression skills
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Greater confidence, self-awareness, and clarity around their character strengths
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A deeper understanding of their leadership potential and personal “why”
This is more than interview prep—it’s preparation for life.
Key Retreat Takeaways
Each attendee will leave with interview skills, a stronger sense of self, heightened confidence, and a Personal Development Plan (PDP) to help them progress immediately in life.
01
Interview Preparation & Advanced Speaking Skills: Master the art of interviews and conversation, whether for school, work, or relationships. Enhance your AQ® (Articulation Quotient) for superior communication & engagement skills.
02
Character Strengths Identification & Leadership Development:
Discover and utilize unique character strengths that help you always put your best foot forward, opening opportunities for a meaningful life.
03
Finding Your Why:
Guide students through a personalized journey to uncover their purpose & elements that lead to their development & productivity.
What Parent's Are Saying About This Experience
“As a father of an 8th grader who attended the inaugural retreat, I was astonished by the transformative impact that two days could have. Led with a passionate and authentic sense of service by Ray and his team, this masterclass guides its lucky attendees to uncover the hidden gem within themselves. Not only did our son build key skills like interviewing and public speaking, he gained a stronger sense of self, discovered his "why," and left with a Personal Development Plan—a GPS for life, not just a GPA. I highly recommend this seaside treasure to any parent seeking to empower their teen."
— David
"I had three kids between the ages of 13-18 participate in this 2-day workshop and each of them walked out of their with a clear understanding of how to show up with intention and authenticity. They learned the fundamentals of how to understand who they are and who they want to be and then reflect that in how they bring themselves to situations, conversations and experiences. It gave them opportunities for self-reflection as well as group learning. And they had fun. Ray did a fantastic job making sure that the two days included opportunities for play and engagement while also staying connected to the purpose of the workshop - how to lead yourself.."
— Karin
"While our boys weren't applying to schools this past year, we know last summer's RD3 retreat was pivotal, as it jump-started them on their journeys with a plan.”
— Durlov & Anna
"Over the 2 days, with Ray's hands-on guidance, she developed the ability to respond to difficult questions under pressure, with poise and confidence. A number of her admissions interviewers commented on how well she did in her interview. She was accepted to her top choice school, and we are confident that the skills she gained will serve her well in the future."
— Gioia
Sign Up Today
Join Ray Diffley of RD3 Education for this 2-Day Event.
When: August 3rd & 4th, 2026 (plan for full days 9:30am-4pm)
Where: Saybrook Point Resort & Marina (The Saybrook Point Inn)
Address: 2 Bridge St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Your Investment: $675 per student
Please note the Event Fee includes the retreat program, lunch and refreshments provided by the resort on both days - accommodations are not included in this fee. Accommodations must be made separately and can be booked at the the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina in Old Saybrook, CT - the event venue. Call to book your room by July 4th to receive a discounted rate for Monday - limited availability: (860) 395-2000.
You can also book rooms at other nearby lodging providers. Contact us for a full list.
Give your student the gift of character strength-based confidence, communication skills, and a personalized roadmap for growth that will help prepare them not just for interviews and applications, but for life.
While there are no formal prerequisites for this program, it is best suited for individuals who are motivated and committed to bringing out their best.