When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States in March, student leaders and advisers of orientation programs that take place in the fall semester had to reimagine these programs to keep students both engaged and safe. 

All three orientation programs, designed to help students transition during their first semester at Texas A&M, were successfully delivered via a virtual or hybrid format.

Fish Camp

The decision to host a virtual Fish Camp this fall was just as much about the Aggie community as it was the freshmen who registered from across the state and country. Last year, Fish Camp hosted 48 camps organized by 1,168 counselors who welcomed 6,500 students into the Aggie family. Moving Fish Camp to a virtual format was a logistical challenge, but the student leaders felt it was important to continue the tradition while staying safe. This year, 1,251 student counselors welcomed 2,699 incoming freshmen.
• Read more about this year’s Fish Camp experience from the Texas A&M Foundation.
• Visit the Fish Camp website to learn more.

Give now to support Fish Camp scholarships.

Transfer Camp (T-Camp)

In place of the traditional three-day, two-night program for T-Camp, student leaders hosted three three-day virtual sessions. The student teams fully committed to creating a unique online experience with camp activities while accommodating campers while keeping them safe.
• Visit the Aggie Transition Camps website to learn more.
• Give now to support T-camp.

Venture Camp

Texas A&M hosts three outdoor orientation programs: Venture Camp-Base Camp,  Venture Camp-Backpack, and Venture Camp-Veterans. This fall, all were hosted using a hybrid online/in-person format to assist freshmen and transfer students as they transition to Texas A&M. 

Venture Camps are coordinated by the Department of Student Activities, Recreational Sports, and the Don & Ellie Knauss Veteran Resource and Support Center. Student leaders known as Venture Mentors manage the programs, including facilitating discussions about Aggie traditions, academic success, wellness, leadership, and more. 

Venture Mentors play a significant role in helping new Aggies transition into day-to-day life at Texas A&M by connecting with other students while experiencing outdoor activities. Mentors are planning follow-up outdoor trips that will allow participants to reflect on their first semester and to build further camaraderie with fellow campers.  

• Visit the Venture Camp website to learn more.
• To support Venture Camps, email Megan Pulliam.