Events | FeaturedAugust 09, 2024

Cub Camp Welcomes First-Years with New Competitive Edge

Written By: Rachel Putman

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is set to welcome nearly 400 incoming freshmen to its annual Cub Camp, running from Wednesday, Aug. 14, to Saturday, Aug. 17. With more than 100 upper-class student volunteers on hand, the four-day orientation program offers a mix of social, educational, and competitive activities aimed at helping first-time, full-time students transition smoothly into college life.

Maggie Heppner, a sophomore media communications major, and the director of Cub Camp, highlighted the program's significance. "Students should come to Cub Camp because it is the best way to start off their freshman year! It plugs them in socially and creates a comfortable environment for them to transition from high school to college. And IT’S FUN!" Heppner said.

This year's Cub Camp introduces a new competitive element, with students competing throughout the week for the title of the first-ever Cub Camp Champ. A Capture the Flag tournament and other team-based events will be part of the new competitive lineup.

Cub Camp kicks off Wednesday with early move-in at the Lions Den Courtyard, followed by "The Kickback," a relaxed evening event aimed at helping students get to know each other before the official start of the camp. On Thursday, Aug. 15, the camp will officially begin with a welcome event at the Recreation and Wellness Center (RAWC). Students will then engage in a series of icebreakers, including a Rock, Paper, Scissors tournament, followed by a motivational session with UAFS Chancellor Dr. Terisa Riley. The day will continue with a kickoff lunch on The Green and conclude with the Cub Camp Games and Color War at the Intramural Field, where students will participate in a camp relay and a competitive game of Capture the Flag. Friday's schedule includes the continuation of the Capture the Flag tournament, offering students another chance to bond and compete. The event will be held at the Intramural Field. Saturday, Aug. 17, wraps up the camp with an all-camp photo session, a showcase of student performances at Stubblefield Center, and a candlelight ceremony at the Bell Tower, symbolizing the close of the camp and the start of the students’ journey at UAFS.

Research underscores the importance of programs like Cub Camp. A study by Syracuse University found that first-year welcome programs have a profound impact on student success, fostering lasting relationships, encouraging leadership, and helping students become more independent as they acclimate to university life.

Students can register for Cub Camp until Friday by visiting UAFS Cub Camp Registration.

Cub Camp 2024 Student Director Staff includes:

• Maggie Heppner – Cub Camp Director, Sophomore, Media Communications major
• Ava Little – Cub Camp Associate Director, Sophomore, Middle Childhood Education major
• Josie Martinez – Director of Programming and Event Coordinator, Junior, Vocal Music Education major
• Krystal Boylan – Director of Logistics, Senior, Business Administration major
• Maci Hodges – Director of Marketing and External Communications, Sophomore, Math major

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