should i join the honors program

Are any freshman here joining the honors program? Aside from the housing benefit and guaranteed spots for some required classes, will i get back $800 worth out of the program? I really wish Tech had single room dorms but since that's not the case, the apartment style is very tempting. Is the retreat in august absolutely mandatory as well since I'm an intl and am not sure exactly when I'll arrive yet. If I choose to join the program and decide it's not for me, what are the repercussions? Thanks in advnce!