Welcome Retreat FAQ
Welcome Retreat Frequently Asked Questions
Okay, I have registered! What do I do with my WELCOME RETREAT FORMS?
The required welcome retreat forms are available below. Please email the three required forms to the Honors College Office at honors@shsu.edu.
Note: If you are not 18 years of age by the deadline then you will need a legal guardian to sign your forms.
Where is the Honors Welcome Retreat? How does transportation work?
The Honors Welcome Retreat is held at Sam Houston State's University Camp in Riverside, Texas. University Camp is located approximately fifteen minutes from the SHSU campus. Students will check in on the SHSU campus at a designated location and the Honors College will provide transportation to camp.
Who goes to Honors Welcome Retreat?
The Honors Welcome Retreat is open to all incoming Honors College students. Current Honors College students who are also Student Ambassadors and HSAC Officers help in coordinating the retreat. Honors College Faculty and Staff will guide the breakout sessions and attend as well.
What is the cost of attending the Honors Welcome Retreat?
There is a non-refundable fee for this event of $75 per student. This fee is paid online through SHSU Marketplace.
The fee includes your lodging, transportation, programming, meals, and camp materials including a t-shirt.
How do I register for the Honors Welcome Retreat? By when should I do this?
Registration is through our main retreat page. The deadline for registration is Friday, August 23, 2024.
If you need assistance with pre-registration, contact the Honors College Office via phone at 936-294-1477 or via email at honors@shsu.edu.
How do I notify you about any special needs, dietary needs, etc.?
Please contact the Honors College office via email at honors@shsu.edu to discuss any special needs or accommodations.
Where do I go to meet for transportation to the Honors Welcome Retreat?
Transportation will be provided to all students who have registered and are attending the retreat. You will need to meet at the location designated via email to check-in and load your things onto the vans. It is important that students do not leave the University Camp during the retreat for any reason.
If you have a special circumstance and require other transportation than what we will provide, you will need to make arrangements prior to August 18th with the Honors College office via email at honors@shsu.edu to discuss the circumstance.
What should I bring to the Honors Welcome Retreat?
- Linens for an extended twin bed (sleeping bag, sheets, pillow)
- Towels for shower and pool
- Shower shoes
- Comfortable clothes for recreational activities such as shorts and T-shirts
- Note: You may want more than one set per day.
- Toiletries
- Closed-toe shoes for recreation and optional activities
- Protection from the sun, such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Appropriate Swimwear
What should I not bring to the Honors Welcome Retreat?
Valuable items that could easily be misplaced such as jewelry, credit cards, or more than $20 cash. Any drugs, alcohol, or weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, are not allowed at camp. This is a sanctioned SHSU event and any violations will be handled in cooperation with the university police and/or university disciplinary council. Students who violate these policies will be asked to leave camp without a refund.
It is important that students do not leave the University Camp during the retreat for any reason.
Will I have cell phone service at camp?
Cell phone service is not very reliable at camp and we offer no secure personal storage. You will be too busy making new friends to need it!
In case of an emergency where someone needs to get a hold of you while you are at camp, contact the SHSU University Camp at (936)-294-3212.
Other Questions?
Please contact the Honors College Office via phone at 936-294-1477 or via email at honors@shsu.edu.
The Elliott T. Bowers Honors College
Academic Building IV Suite 202 | Box 2479 | Huntsville, Texas 77341-2479
Phone: (936) 294.1477 | Email: honors@shsu.edu