Buckle up and get ready for the fast track through Lion life! Here's just a glimpse of what your life will be like when you join our Lion Pride.
New Student Welcome - Pride Walk
In true TAMUC fashion, we welcome our new Lions with a bang. Each year we kick off the fall semester with a Pride Walk led by our university president. Freshmen students gather to walk the spirit-lined sidewalks of campus, showered with smiles and friendly faces from faculty, staff and students. We truly can't wait to welcome you home!
Lion Camp
Are you ready for this?! As you embark on the next chapter of your education, be sure to make room for a little fun. We like to do our part in welcoming freshmen to campus. For three days during the week prior to the first class day, you will join fellow incoming Lions as you get familiar with everything you need to know about your new home, including one another! Rest up for this one -- it's a wild ride!
Lion Camp Tailgating
You don't need a truck for this kind of tailgating! Meet us around the stadium for a spirit-filled pre-party before every home game. Football is kind of a big deal around here, so we make it an all-day event! Did someone say chili cheese dog?
Freshman Run
Let's get ready to ruuuuuuun! We like to kick off our first football game of the season with a stampede of spirit. At our Student Appreciation Night, you will gather with fellow freshmen and storm the field as you lead our Lions into Memorial Stadium. Go big or go home, right?
Use your mouse to look around as you play this 360 video from last year's run.
Football Games
G-O GO LIONS GO! Is there anything more quintessentially collegiate than an autumn afternoon spent tailgating followed by a night under the stadium lights? In Texas, we do football big. In fact, our 50-yard x 50-yard Lion head logo that stretches across Ernest Hawkins Field is nationally recognized as the largest of it’s kind, and we can back up that hubris. The field that hosts the 2017 NCAA Division II National Champions should make a statement, and ours does just that! We Lions believe in rooting for one another; so whether you're here for the fellowship, food or football, we can't wait to cheer alongside you.
Outdoor Movie Night
What’s better than a good movie, a bucket of buttered popcorn and a Mr. Pibb? A good movie, a bucket of buttered popcorn and a Mr. Pibb under the stars. That’s right. Be sure and pack a good blanket for this one!
Great Lawn
Ah, precious green space! The Great Lawn is like a big hug from Mother Nature. Organizations host a variety of events here, like outdoor movies and Pawpalooza (pictured). We also recommend this spot for a picnic blanket, some Starbucks and a chat with a good friend – it’s good for the soul.
Homecoming Bonfire and Fireworks Show
Things get lit during homecoming week – literally. A favorite tradition among students and staff alike, the bonfire brings Lion fans together for a unified purpose. The fire is held outside of Whitley Hall each year followed by an epic fireworks show. Getting excited yet?
Moonlight Zip-lining
Whether you’re looking for a cool adventure or a super impressive date night, this one’s a crowd pleaser. Zipline via moonlight on our outdoor adventure course located just across Highway 24 from the main campus. Don’t fret about transportation – it’s within walking distance!
Hungry, Hungry Hippos
Who says you have to grow up just because you're in college? We've taken the cherished childhood game to the next level with our life-size rendition of Hungry, Hungry Hippos. Remember how hard it was to win when you were a wee one? Now's your chance for redemption! Grab a group of friends or fly solo and meet some new peeps at a game on the MAC courts. Nothing says "nice to meet you" like pushing someone around face-down on a scooter, right?
Rock Climbing
Mountainous terrain isn't exactly a feature of East Texas, but we'll have you trained for a Rocky Mountain trek in no time with our indoor rock climbing wall. Situated in a rotunda of windows inside the Morris Recreation Center, the 45-foot wall almost feels like it's immersed in the outdoors. Escape the world for a while and join us for a climb as the AC cools your face and the sunshine warms your back. See ya at the summit!
Campus RecreationIntramural Events
So you really love basketball but aren’t destined for the NBA…never fear; intramurals are here! Whether you're just the athletic kind of you need to blow off some steam, you are invited to join in on our friendly competitions. All students are welcome to compete in intramural events ranging from Mario Kart to softball. Follow the link for a complete list of events:
Intramural SportsGet Involved with Greek Life
Our sororities and fraternities are one big happy Greek family. If you like to socialize and fill your free time with fun events, Greek life could be a fit for you! Greek organizations not only provide an enriched college experience, but the relationships formed often last a lifetime through continued friendships and network opportunities. Get to the Greek!
Dive-In Movies
Ah, sweet summertime. Our dive-in movie nights (held at The Rec pool) are ideal for escaping the Texas heat. All you need is a float, some swimmers and possibly some moisturizer to have handy after that two-hour float – we’ve got the reel.
Recreation Center
The Morris Recreation Center (or “Rec Center” to most Lions) is essentially a playground for those who live an active life. While it does boast state-of-the-art exercise equipment, it also offers so much more. If pumping iron in the weight room isn’t your favorite form of exercise, there are a variety of other options, like sand volleyball, indoor rock climbing, swimming, group fitness classes, basketball, volleyball, a running track, and more. The swimming pool features a jacuzzi, lazy river, a basketball hoop and umbrella waterfalls. Your studies should always be number one, but sometimes that noodle needs a break! Visit the campus recreation site for a complete list of amenities:
Campus RecreationSand Volleyball
We really dig a good game of sand volleyball. Morning, noon and night you'll find Lions serving up fun times and good memories on the courts at the Rec Center. We might be five hours from the nearest ocean, but you can be in beach mode seven days a week at A&M-Commerce. Bump that!
Campus RecreationHammock grove
Let's hang! Lions love to lounge, and this is the perfect spot for just that. If you have a spare second on a sunny afternoon, slip into one of our hammocks for a short siesta or study session.
Residence Hall Game Night
TAMUC has Monopolized fun – see what we did there? Living among your peers creates a unique experience that truly enriches college life. When you’re looking for some fun but you don’t want to change out of your pajamas, head down to the community area in your residence hall for a game night. There's no better way to really get to know people than a glimpse at their competitive sides!
Theater Performance
“To enter a theatre for a performance is to be inducted into a magical space, to be ushered into the sacred arena of the imagination.” Simon Callow, Charles Dickens and the Great Theatre of the World
Don’t settle for another night of Netflix; come to the theatre and get a taste of live entertainment while supporting your peers. As a student, you can grab a season pass for only $15!
Fashion Show
We took a page out of Heidi Klum’s Project Runway book for this one! Each year, art students create innovative apparel out of paper and “household” materials rather than fabric – think newspaper, plastic spoons, toilet paper and the like – which are then modeled in a one-of-a-kind fashion show. Step aside, Tyra!
Amphitheater
The Amphitheater is our very own little slice of grassy Heaven. It serves as the backdrop for many Greek organization events such as Bid Day celebrations, new member showcases and Greek Week events. You’ll also find several other events hosted here throughout the school year, like outdoor yoga classes and performances. If there's not an event taking place, it also makes for a prime study spot. The researchers do say we learn better outdoors!
Bid Day
Bid Day is likely one of the most significant college memories for its participants. At the conclusion of the College Panhellenic Council primary recruitment process, the sorority chapters celebrate with an event called Bid Day. The prospective new members receive their invitations of membership, or “bids,” from the individual organizations. It is a day filled with happiness and excitement as the women begin their lifelong membership in one of the four Panhellenic sororities on campus – Gamma Phi Beta, Chi Omega, Alpha Phi and Kappa Delta. As the members often say, it’s the day you find “home.”
Day of the Dead
Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is recognized on campus annually by students, faculty, staff and the community. Traditionally held at the amphitheater, we gather to celebrate with activities like sugar skull decorating, face painting, altar competition, and cultural food and music. It's the perfect break from skull-astic studies!
Outdoor Yoga
Your mom will definitely be impressed with everything you learn during your time at TAMUC, but nothing builds the vocabulary like a yoga class! Pranayama, savasana, Namaste…must we continue? Throughout each semester we offer outdoor yoga classes -- open to everyone free of charge. You'll practice downward dog and child's pose alongside your peers with the scenic backdrop of the amphitheatre. Grab your mat and start practicing your “om.” It's time to open those chakras!
Basketball Game
There's something nostalgic about the familiar smell of a gymnasium. Somewhere between floor wax and fresh popcorn is the comfort and buzz of a game of hoops. You can catch our men’s and women’s basketball teams at home in The Field House, but be sure to grab your seat early; they draw a crowd!
Volleyball Game
If you like fast-paced action, Lion Volleyball is just for you. Cheer on the team at home games played in The Field House, or catch them on the road. Follow the link for game dates:
Volleyball ScheduleSorority Housing
Who’s in for a perpetual slumber party with your best friends?! Fraternity and Sorority Life play an integral role in the campus culture. At TAMUC, we are fortunate enough to have housing for members of our College Panhellenic Council, which includes the Alpha Phi, Chi Omega, Gamma Phi Beta and Kappa Delta sororities. Each house can accommodate up to 34 members of the chapter and all members have access to the common areas. The common areas include a living room, a full-sized kitchen and dining room, study area, and organization storage. Living together creates a strong bond among the members, allowing them to connect even more with their chapters. Additionally, there is a courtyard behind each of the houses that allows for meaningful collaboration between organizations. Joining a sorority isn’t just about making friends or joining a network – it’s about community.
NPHC Yard Show
Step into one of the most spirited events held on our campus. The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), most commonly known as the "Divine Nine," host an annual spring Yard Show as an opportunity for active NPHC organizations to share the history of their organization through strolling, stepping and chanting. Wear comfortable shoes – the performances will have you on your feet!
Global Cultural Festival
Get ready to become a world traveler…without even leaving Texas! Each year we host a Global Cultural Festival that will open your eyes to heritage and traditions from countries around the world. International students showcase their respective cultures with food tastings, arts, displays and – a big crowd-pleaser – the talent and fashion shows.
On se voit là-bas!
Planetarium
We are so proud to be able to offer our students real-life astronomy lessons within the state-of-the-art, full dome, digital projection planetarium. Sure, books are gold, but the planetarium is dynamite. Just ask students who have taken Dr. Montgomery's classes under the stars! If those course options don't fit your schedule you'll still have opportunities to experience the facility each Friday night at the film screenings hosted here. We promise it won’t disappoint.
Block Party
The annual Block Party is an event we anticipate every year. Held outdoors at the West Walking Mall, the event features live music from various artists, food and giveaways. That’s right, a free concert with even more free stuff. Feel “free” to let out a little squeal of excitement.
Billiards at The Club
At TAMUC, everyone can be a part of “The Club.” This facility is located in the Rayburn Student Center right down the way from the bookstore and the cafeteria. Don’t worry about finding The Club – it would be hard to miss. With vibrant lights, lounge seating, a stage, a bar and billiards, you can be completely entertained without even leaving campus.
Graduation
Whether you're dreaming of heading to college or what will come after, we feel sure you've pondered that notable walk across the stage a time or two. There are few things in life as monumental as this moment, and we are so honored to share it with each of our graduates. When your time comes, you'll gather excitedly in The Field House with your peers; you might have a decked out cap, or you might choose to keep it classic; you'll proceed into the gym to find your seat, simultaneously scoping out the crowd for your loved ones; you'll anxiously wait your turn, then cross the stage to your future that awaits with endless opportunity.
We're already wiping back our tears of pride!
Thank You