Dawg Camp Fusion

The transition from high school to college life can be daunting for incoming students. This is why the Dawg Camp program was created. Dawg Camp is an extended orientation program designed to assist students with their transition into the University of Georgia community. These programs allow participants to meet other incoming students and connect with current campus leaders in the spirit of UGA’s history and traditions over the course of multiple days. Dawg Camp provides a foundation for a successful college experience by exposing participants to student life, exploring common transition topics, and engaging in fun and dynamic activities. This is also an opportunity to develop close friendships and meaningful skills to thrive in the first year of college.

Dawg Camp Fusion, held in mid-June, is one of four Dawg Camps held throughout the 2016 summer. Fusion immersed incoming students into the diverse culture of UGA and Athens and taught them about the history of the Classic City. Life beyond the UGA campus influences a student’s time at the university, and thanks to Fusion, these students will enter freshman year with an extensive knowledge about the local community.

During Fusion, students toured some of the Classic City’s most historic locations, including the Morton Theater, the Georgia Theatre, 40 Watt Club and Nuci’s Space. They also enjoyed a visit to the State Botanical Gardens and had breakfast by Athens’ favorites Jittery Joes and Ike and Jane’s Donuts. On June 23, the students volunteered as ushers at the Morton Theater for the Flagpole Music Awards. Students concluded the week with AthFest, an Athens tradition that many alumni will fondly remember!

It wouldn’t be a trip to Athens without great local food! Stops included breakfast at Athens Bagel Company, owned by alumnus David Asman (BS ’08), lunches at Sauce House and Your Pie, and dinners from Tazikis, the Georgia Theatre rooftop, and Cali & Tito’s . Two of these restaurants, Athens Bagel Company and Your Pie, have been honored on the UGA Alumni Association’s Bulldog 100 list in previous years. During these meals, students met with local alumni to talk about their time in spent in Athens, their businesses, and other spots that are unique to Athens. While eating at Your Pie, met owner and alumnus Drew French (BBA ’05). In addition to owning a Bulldog 100 business, Drew was a member of the 40 Under 40 Class of 2015. After talking to the students about his experience Drew said, “I really enjoyed meeting with the Dawg Camp Fusion campers at Your Pie.  I’m glad to see that incoming freshmen have the ability to see a different side of Athens than what most experience in their time at UGA.  It is good to see that they are already focused on things that they are passionate about, and that UGA supports this passion by providing access to what makes Athens a great place.”

Want more information on Dawg Camp Fusion and the other Dawg Camps? Visit their website or Facebook page to learn more!