Excited, incoming freshmen eagerly fill the empty hallways, ready to begin their long-awaited high school journey. Across the campus, footsteps brush against the hot concrete as students seek to find their class locations.
On Saturday, Aug. 2, 2025, Texas High School held its annual Tiger Camp for rising freshmen. First taking place in 2010, Tiger Camp introduces freshmen to campus grounds, excites them for their lasting experience at Texas High, and proves to be a memorable tradition for many students, as well as an important staple in Texas High culture. Students participate in Icebreaker activities, guided tours, and a pep rally to build their anticipation for the coming years.
“Attending Tiger Camp made me excited for high school,” incoming freshman Rebecca Unger said. “We had conversations with upperclassmen and reviewed chants and cheers that are important to know at Texas High.”
Holding the event every year takes teamwork from students, as well as Texas High School’s teachers and administrators.
“We started planning in April, and we completely changed the schedule of Tiger Camp this year, putting the pep rally in the middle of the activities instead of the end, which I think worked really well,” Student Council sponsor Susan Waldrep said. “All of the students who assist with Tiger Camp attend training, and it’s a lot of work, but I know it’s worth it.”
Returning students assist with the success of the event by guiding tours, answering questions, and making sure that every freshman feels welcome into the Tiger family.
“Students and Staff collaborate by planning fun, interactive games for the kids,” senior Lila Simpson said, “My favorite part of helping with Tiger Camp each year is definitely guiding tours and seeing all the incoming freshmen’s reactions to how big the school is.”
Overall, Tiger Camp serves as an incredible first experience for incoming freshmen at Texas High. Through the implementation of community, unity, and inclusion, Tiger Camp proves itself to be a one of a kind experience that all students grow to love each year.
“I love helping to make sure that [the freshmen] all feel more comfortable on the first day of school,” Simpson said. “They’re always really sweet.”
