Tarleton traditions every student should experience

BY CAROLINE CRAIN / News Editor

Certain events at Tarleton State University stand out as essential experiences that every Texan should try at least once. 

Duck Camp is consistently recommended by both students and faculty as a valuable introduction to life at Tarleton. This post-orientation retreat provides new students with a chance to learn the university’s traditions and build friendships. 

According to Erath County’s The Flash Today, 70% of incoming Tarleton freshmen and transfer students attend Duck Camp each year. Freshman Aden Yearout was one contributor to that statistic. 

“Duck Camp is good because you can start making friends, and once you get to campus you'll already know a bunch of people,” Yearout said. 

Another event students suggest attending is Convocation, which is held at the start of the academic year during Transition Week. New students light a candle at the formal ceremony, symbolizing their official transition into the Tarleton family. 

Michael Hildebrandt is a junior at Tarleton who recognized the significance of the event. “Lighting your flame here at Tarleton is a really awesome experience,” Hildebrandt said.

Homecoming Week, a cornerstone of campus life, includes several days’ worth of activities and events for students to take part in. 

Freshman Baleyn Love expressed her feelings about her first fall semester at Tarleton. 

“Homecoming in general is just such a beautiful tradition that we have here, and I think it's great for everyone to experience,” Love said. 

Yell Contest is one of, if not the, most recommended events to attend on campus. This Homecoming tradition allows organizations, most notably sororities and fraternities, to showcase their creativity in performances that celebrate Tarleton pride. 

Adam Campbell is a sophomore that saw Yell Contest as the best event to attend on campus. 

“There's a lot of work put into it by a lot of different organizations, and it's just good to showcase what Tarleton students represent,” Campbell said. 

Midnight Madness is another tradition that was recommended by students. This event, which typically falls during homecoming week, introduces the Tarleton basketball teams and interacts with attendees through games and special performances. 

Junior Katrin Pyeatt thought that both homecoming traditions were worthwhile. 

“I think the best events here are Midnight Madness and Yell Contest,” Pyeatt said. “I’ve had a really great time at both of those events all of my years here, and I’m excited to experience them again one last time.”

Tailgating at Memorial Stadium is another favorite among students and alumni. Held before football games, tailgates bring together the Tarleton community for food, music and pregame excitement. 

Sophomore Shelby Peacock said that tailgating is an event that students shouldn’t miss out on. 

“Homecoming tailgate is a good way to get to know other organizations, and you also get free food,” Peacock said. 

Students agree that these events are more than just traditions – they’re essential parts of the Tarleton experience. 

These moments help students feel connected to the university and its roots. If you’re looking to get involved at Tarleton, these suggestions are a great place to start.