Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why should I attend Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.?

Participants will get a head start on their college careers by learning about leadership, involvement opportunities, and campus resources. Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. will provide you with the opportunity to learn more about the traditions and values of ECU, ask questions about life as a Pirate, and of course, make lots of new friends. At Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S., participants will begin finding their place in the Pirate family before classes even begin!

What do you do at Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.?

Ranging from team building activities to small group meetings led by a First Mate (an upperclass student), there will be a variety of experiences at Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. Each activity is carefully designed to offer support through your transition to college, while also challenging you personally.

What should I wear during Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.?

It is hot and humid during the month of August, so we suggest bringing clothing that is cool and comfortable. Suggestions are t-shirts, modest shorts, and comfortable shoes throughout those three days. Other items include tennis shoes, and one set of clothes that can get very dirty. Swimming is an optional activity, so bring a modest swimsuit if you’d like. Click here for a full packing list.

If I come to Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S., how will residence hall move in work?  Is there a fee to move in early?

The Office of Student Transitions will coordinate with Campus Living so that students attending Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. will be able to move in on the Monday camp begins.   Students will have a few hours to move into their assigned hall before leaving for camp.  During this time, students may not have the opportunity to completely set up their room or take care of other business on campus.  Students will return to campus on Wednesday, which will give ample time to complete tasks prior to the start of classes.

Where do we stay? Can I choose my roommate?

Participants will stay in an air-conditioned, bunk bed style cabin with others of the same gender. As a part of the camp experience, you are not able to request cabin mates. One of the main objectives of Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. is to help you get to know others. Random roommate selection aids in this process!

Do my parents and/or family members attend Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. with me?

The experience is designed just for incoming students.  Family members are welcome to assist with move-in on Monday morning and/or return after you are back from Camp to help get your room set up.

What will I do after I return from camp, but prior to classes starting?

The Pirate Experience offers activities for students Thursday-Sunday to help you explore and connect on campus.  You will also have time to explore campus, find your classes, finish setting up your room, and prepare for the first day of class on Monday.

Can I bring my computer, iPad, and/or other similar electronic devices?

Please leave these items at home! We don’t want anything to happen to them! Cell phones will be allowed to be used in the evening.

How can I pay for Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.?

You will pay when you register for Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.

I need to leave Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. early.  Is that okay?

We do not allow students to leave early from Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S., so please plan your vacation, work, and personal schedules accordingly.

Something came up and I need to cancel my Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. reservation—how do I do that?

If you need to cancel your reservation, you must submit a request via email to orientation@ecu.edu prior to July 12, 2024.  Cancellations will not be taken over the phone. There will be a refund if the request is received before July 12, 2024.  After this date there will be no refunds for cancellations.

I’m a transfer student – can I attend Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.?

YES!  You can definitely attend Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.!  You won’t want to miss this opportunity to learn more about your new institution!

Are there other programs that conflict with Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S.?

Some organizations and programs may have conflicts with the Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. dates.  Please check with your program prior to registering for Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. Examples include ROTC and Marching Pirates.  Refunds will not be given after July 12, 2024.

I’m not a very social person. Is Camp P.I.R.A.T.E.S. really the right environment for me?

Camp can help bring you out of your shell. Studies at similar college freshmen camps have shown that 16 percent of campers considered themselves “shy” when they first set foot on campus. After camp, 61 percent of campers felt that they had become more outgoing or more easygoing for having attended the camp. You will love it regardless of if you are social or not, guaranteed.