Hundreds of incoming East Texas A&M University students began their college journey by building friendships, learning university traditions and discovering what it means to be a Lion at the annual Lion Camp experience.

Held for the fourth year at Allaso Ranch in Hawkins, Texas, about 200 new Lion students competed, relaxed and bonded with one another over shared university pride.

Making lasting memories

Upon arriving at camp, students joined one of two teams—Blue Pride or Gold Pride. Throughout each three-day session, campers competed alongside their Pride in challenges highlighting ETAMU's history, traditions and campus spirit. Each activity gave students an opportunity to earn points for their Pride, with the winning team claiming bragging rights and the coveted Lion Camp trophy.

While the competition is an important part of Lion Camp, the experience is ultimately about belonging. Over the course of each session, students form bonds with their Pridemates and camp counselors that often last throughout their time at East Texas A&M and beyond.

This year's camp experience was split into two three-day sessions. In the first session, Gold Pride took the victory in the competition, while Blue Pride was victorious in the second session.

A hallmark event of Lion Camp is the Pride Chant Competition, held on the final day of camp. The chant competition serves as the culmination of the camp experience, with prides spending the entire session preparing and practicing before performing at the closing ceremony.

Campers share their thoughts

Several recent campers spoke about how much their experiences at Lion Camp will shape their time at East Texas A&M.

• Abigail Lawrence: “Lion Camp was such an amazing experience that I'll never forget. I loved meeting new people, stepping out of my comfort zone, and learning all the traditions that make ET and the Lion community so special. I'm so grateful for the memories and friendships I made during my time at camp.”
• Xavier Jones: “When I first heard about Lion Camp, I was a little nervous to sign up, but my friends encouraged me to give it a chance, and I'm so glad they did. From games and pool parties to making chants for our Pride, every day brought us closer and made me even more excited to come to ETAMU. A special shoutout to the Austin family for helping me come out of my shell and making me feel like I truly belonged. Everyone coming together as one family made the experience so special, and I honestly miss it already. You'll find your people here for sure—I know I found mine.”
• Ivie Enosegbe: “Lion Camp was such a great experience for me. I truly came out of my shell, met new people and made my first group of college friends. It helped me feel more comfortable and connected as I started this new chapter of my life. I'm so grateful for the memories and friendships Lion Camp gave me!”

Learn more about Lion Camp.