STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State calls its summer freshman orientation Duck Camp for Oscar P, the legendary pet duck of the university’s founder. Last year four camps were needed for all the students who wanted to take in the school’s rich history and tradition before stepping on campus to begin their Tarleton journey.
The incredible three-day experience immerses future Texans in the school’s history and traditions by connecting them with peers, student leaders, faculty and staff to ease the transition into college life. Student leaders, known as TTMs (Tarleton Transition Mentors), have created a fun and welcoming environment for incoming students.
This year, a fifth camp has been added as the spirit of Tarleton State University climbs to greater heights.
“It’s no secret that more and more students are choosing Tarleton State as a first-choice university,” said President James Hurley. “They love Tarleton — its people, its traditions, its commitment to success.”
The percentage of freshmen and transfer students who participate in Duck Camp is among the highest in the nation, and this year an additional 500 are expected. Continuing to shatter enrollment records every semester since 2019, the momentum continues this fall with the university serving an anticipated 17,000 students — nearly a 30% increase from fall 2019.
“We’re ready for the best fall in Tarleton history, and we want every new student possible to experience our institution firsthand at a summer Duck Camp. There’s no better way to learn about our university, connect with classmates and become engaged with the Tarleton family,” said Hurley.
Registration for Duck Camp 5 is open but spots are filling quickly. In addition to freshmen, students transferring from other colleges or universities are encouraged to sign up here for Texan Camp. Duck Camp 5 and Texan Camp are both scheduled for Aug. 14-16.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.