Camp Fire

2024 Camp Fire Group Picture

Igniting Leadership

UIC Camp Fire is a three-day extended orientation program that supports incoming students' transition into college by exposing them to UIC programs, resources, and traditions while connecting them to current and future student leaders in a diverse environment.

Camp Fire is a great way to meet new friends, learn about getting involved at UIC, and get connected before classes even start!

Camp Fire 2025 Counselor Applications

Camp Fire: A 3 Day Extended Orientation for New Students

UIC Camp Fire is a three-day extended orientation program that supports incoming students’ transition into college by exposing them to UIC programs, resources, and traditions while connecting them to current and future student leaders in a diverse environment.

Camp Fire is a great way to meet new friends, learn about getting involved at UIC, and get connected before classes even start!

That includes transportation to and from camp, lodging, meals, all programming materials, social activities, and a t-shirt.  There are some scholarships available to those who might have an issue with the cost.  There is an application section in the registration form if one is interested in a scholarship.

FAQ

When is Camp Fire?

Camp Fire is from Wednesday, August 20th-Friday, August 22nd.

Where is Camp Fire?

Camp Fire will be held at Covenant Harbor in Lake Geneva, WI.

What does Camp Fire Cost?

That includes transportation to and from camp, lodging, meals, all programming materials, social activities, and a t-shirt.  If cost would be an issue, there are scholarships available (one can request on the registration form).

How do I sign up for Camp Fire?

You can sign up HERE or go to https://go.uic.edu/CampFireRegistration

When is the deadline to register for Camp Fire?

Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.  Upon confirmation, participants will have 7 days to accept.

What if I am living in Campus Housing for the Fall of 2025?

Those living on campus will be able to move into their Fall Housing Assignment the morning of Wednesday, August 20th prior to the Camp Fire Kick Off.

  • Meet 200 other new students in large and small group settings.
  • Meet UIC staff (link), and student leaders (link).
  • Participate in fun activities and team builders.
  • Learn tips and tricks on how to be a successful student.
  • Learn about UIC traditions.
  • Learn how to take advantage of opportunities available to you as a UIC student.
  • Learn leadership skills and leadership opportunities on campus.
  • Learn how to make the most of your college experience.
  • Have fun!

New Students (first years and transfers) attending Camp Fire will…

  1. Feel connected to and confident about UIC, through exposure to programs, resources, traditions, and people.
  2. Develop an increased self-awareness of his or her own identity.
  3. Build long-lasting relationships with peers, student leaders, and administrators.

Apply Today (Current Student Leaders)

UIC Camp Fire is a three-day extended orientation program that supports incoming students’ transition into college by exposing them to UIC programs, resources, and traditions while connecting them to current and future student leaders in a diverse environment.

A key to this experience is the ability for incoming first-year and transfer students to be in clusters run by current student leaders.  As a Camp Fire Counselor, you will have the opportunity to lead, support, mentor, and aid in the transition of first-year and transfer students to UIC.

Benefits:

  • Creating and establishing relationships with Student Affairs staff and other incoming students
  • Development of inter/intrapersonal skills
  • Receive a great t-shirt, training, and free meals during Camp Fire!

Eligibility:

  • Must be registered as an undergraduate student for Fall 2025
  • Previously participated in a student affairs event or organization (strongly preferred) (ie. LeaderShape Institute, Project LEAD, Orientation Leader, Ignite, member of a registered student organization, etc.)
  • Be in good academic standing with the university (2.00 Cumulative GPA or higher)
  • Be in good conduct standing with the university and housing
  • Be available for Camp Fire Counselor training (in person and/or online)
  • Be available to participate in all portions of Camp Fire 2025 on August 20-23, 2025

Important Dates:

  • Friday, April 4th – Camp Fire Counselor Applications (Priority Review) Due by 11:59 pm
  • Monday, April 21st – Decision Letters Sent Out
  • May TBD – Camp Fire Counselor Initial Training
  • June TBD – Camp Fire Counselor Training (online module)
  • July TBD – Camp Fire Counselor Training (online meeting)
  • Monday, August 18th – Tuesday, August 19th- Camp Fire Counselor Training (in person)
  • Wednesday, August 20th – Camp Fire Counselors help with check-in and early move-in
  • Wednesday, August 20th-Friday, August 22nd – Camp Fire 2025

Camp Fire Counselors

UIC Camp Fire is a three-day extended orientation program that supports incoming students’ transition into college by exposing them to UIC programs, resources, and traditions while connecting them to current and future student leaders in a diverse environment.

A key to this experience is the ability for incoming first-year and transfer students to be in clusters run by current student leaders. As a Camp Fire Counselor, you will have the opportunity to lead, support, mentor, and aid in the transition of first-year and transfer students to UIC.

 

Ready for Camp Fire?

Have questions? Want to stay connected?