RAM CAMP CONT. The students also explored campus and community recreation through the VCU Outdoor Adventure Program, hiking a local trail, biking a four-mile route through Richmond and climbing the rock wall inside Cary Street Gym. “One of the most memorable experiences I had at RAM CAMP would have to be the diversity seminar,” said freshman Vitoria Garcia. “It was an enlightening experience to discuss the inclusive environment at VCU. I learned about what our school and the Richmond community has to offer, as well as how to be an active ally for social justice groups. I loved the experiences I had at RAM CAMP and hope to serve as a RAM CAMP leader next year.” The students learned about other campus resources during presentations from University Academic Advising, the Global Education Office and VCU GLOBE. They also were treated to a “traditions night” social at Altria Theatre, hosted by Rowdy Rams and VCU Athletics and featuring VCU cheerleaders, dancers, athletes, coaches, the VCU pep band and Rodney the Ram. Allie Meagher, who attended RAM CAMP as an incoming freshman four years ago, said the week of activities helps students adjust to life on campus. “I’m an out-of-state student, and I came from a fairly small high school,” said Meagher. “RAM CAMP gave me that small community I needed to get acclimated to VCU. I’ve always been thankful for what RAM CAMP did for me my freshman year, which is why I’ve returned to the program every year to help give that experience to other incoming freshmen.” Like Meagher, many returning students applied to become a RAM CAMP leader or student director and serve as a mentor to new students. “I would recommend any student leader at VCU to consider becoming a RAM CAMP student director,” said Rachel Childs, a senior in the School of Allied Health Professions and RAM CAMP student director.
14 – SPRING 2018
Childs was one of the program’s first participants when RAM CAMP began in 2013. “I am so glad that I participated because it taught me how to be a leader among thousands of individuals,” said Childs. For many students who have gone through RAM CAMP, the term “opportunity” is used frequently as a way to describe what the experience means to them. “RAM CAMP is such an amazing program that provides a select group of freshmen many opportunities that other freshmen do not have access to,” said Alexis Taylor, a junior in the School of Nursing and RAM CAMP student director. “Freshmen have the chance to experience their first moments of college life with a great support system of leaders and directors to help guide them every step of the way.” So, what are the new opportunities for students next year? “That’s a secret,” said Cooper. “But I can tell you that we always go big when it comes to RAM CAMP so stayed tuned as we begin to plan for RAM CAMP 2018.”