Texas Tech’s Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources marked the launch of a new student initiative this fall, hosting the inaugural session of Camp Grow, a program designed to introduce incoming freshmen and transfer students to the college’s academic and social community.
The event, held on Aug. 22 at the United Supermarkets Arena, drew 453 first-year students and 67 student counselors for a morning of orientation, reflection and camaraderie. College officials called the debut an incredible success.
“My hope through this event was to show new students that our college has a genuine culture of support and care, not just with its faculty and staff, but also with its students,” said Maeley Stroupe, the college’s assistant director for student success. “This culture of care is something I would love to see passed along with each generation of students attending Texas Tech and Davis College and carried with them into the workforce upon graduation.”
Robert Cox, the college’s associate dean for academic and student programs, underscored the importance of preparing students holistically as they embark on their academic journeys.
“Through this holistic approach to student success, we strived to inspire, challenge, and support this new class in hopes of creating a foundation of commitment to themselves and our Davis College mission,” Cox said. “The goal of this event was to create a mindset shift where students felt fully prepared and confident for their first year academically, socially and emotionally.”
Following a welcome from Stroupe and Cox, students split into small discussion groups led by counselors who guided discussions including how to stay grounded during their transition to Davis College, whether they were freshman attending college for the first time or a transfer from a different institution. Other topics included how to get rooted into Davis College by taking ownership of their college experience walking through different scenarios that most college students face.
Additionally, students discussed opportunities during college that prepare students for their career and how to make the most of their time here at Texas Tech, as well as the importance of maintaining wellness throughout the year by developing a support system and building a strong community. The sessions ended with a hot dog lunch outside the arena, that was provided with the support of Capital Farm Credit, one of the state’s largest agricultural lending cooperatives.
For students like Madeline Braman, a junior agricultural communications major from Refugio, Texas, who served as a counselor, the program offered more than just leadership experience.
“Camp Grow not only helped me become a better version of myself to guide those just starting their college journey, but it also gave me lifelong relationships and lasting memories through the activities and connections we shared,” Braman said. “I would recommend it to any incoming student as a great place to meet new friends, discover who is there to support you, and build a foundation for success.”
The program was supported by Davis College’s Student Success Center, with staff members Sandra Addo, Haley Hudson, Madi Nall, Brittyn LeCompte and Jeanette Moya helping to guide the day’s activities.
CONTACT: Robert Cox, Associate Dean for Academic & Student Programs, Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or Robert.Cox@ttu.edu
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