Ya-A-Te | TJC

Ya-A-Te

2025 YA-A-TE

Ya-A-Te welcomes incoming and returning students to TJC, giving them an opportunity to meet fellow students, have fun and learn about life at TJC.

Ya a te logo

Ya-A-Te means “Welcome” in Apache and is a three-day retreat held off-campus for freshmen and sophomore students. It teaches leadership skills and teamwork, all while demonstrating the resources students will need for a successful future at TJC. Attendees experience the outdoors while canoeing and zip-lining, enjoy nightly activities, and compete in tribal games for the bragging rights of the ultimate tribe.

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8-23-23 YA-A TE TJC Leadership Retreat DAY 2_19b
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Quotes from past Ya-A-Te attendees:

  • "I really enjoyed myself. I loved my table that I sat at everyday. Hopefully next year I will be part of an organization when I come."
  • "Had an amazing time at Ya-A-Te! I enjoyed making new friends and making new memories."
  • "I'm so glad I was able to come to Ya-A-Te. My cabinmates are now my best friends. I hope we stay in contact after this."
  • "The retreat was out of my comfort zone, but I had fun and made new friends after all!"

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Frequently Asked Questions

What will I do at Ya-A-Te?

You will be introduced to the resources needed to be a successful student leader at Tyler Junior College. You will meet new friends, learn TJC traditions, and discover how to get involved on campus. In addition, you will play tribal games, enjoy nightly activities, and have free time to explore the facility.

Here's a tentative schedule from last year’s retreat for you to get an idea of events and activities that will be taking place during the 3-day retreat.

Monday, August 18

Tuesday, August 19

Wednesday, August 20

12:00 PM: Check In, Opening Ceremony & Resource Fair


2:00 PM: Travel to Allaso Ranch


3:00 PM: Arrive & Cabin Move-in


3: 30 PM: Small Group #1


4:30 PM: Free Time


6:00 PM: Leadership Workshop & Dinner
Ranch Commons


7:00 PM: Tribal Ceremony


7:30 PM: Tribe Time


8:00 PM: Tribal Games
Apache Pong: Mescalero vs. Chiricahua
Apache Pass: Lipan vs. Kiowa


9:30 PM: Pool Party


12:00 AM: Lights Out

8:30 AM: Breakfast
Ranch Commons


9:00 AM: Tribal Games
Apache Pong: Lipan vs. Kiowa
Apache Pass: Mescalero vs. Chiricahua


10:00 AM: Small Group #2


11:30 AM: Namesake Cheer Competition
Ranch Commons


12:00 PM: Tribal Game: Trivia Bowl
Ranch Commons


1:30 PM: Lunch
Ranch Commons


2:00 PM: Free Time


5:00 PM: Leadership Workshop & Dinner
Ranch Commons


6:30 PM: Tribal Games
Kickball: Mescalero vs. Kiowa
Blind Volleyball: Lipan vs. Chiricahua


7:30 PM: Diversity Wall


9:00 PM: Small Groups #3


10:00 PM: Dance - Theme: Favorite Holiday


12:30 AM: Lights Out

8:30 AM: Breakfast
Ranch Commons


9:00 AM: Tribal Games
Kickball: Lipan vs. Chiricahua
Blind Volleyball: Mescalero vs. Kiowa


10:00 AM: Small Group #4


11:00 AM: Depart from Allaso Ranch


12:00 PM: Lunch & Closing Ceremony

* This year’s retreat will look slightly different and times and activities may change.


How do I register for Ya-A-Te?

Register

The registration fee is only $60 to attend. After July 1, the fee is $75 and registration ends one week prior to the retreat.


Can I drive myself to the Ya-A-Te?

No. The Ya-A-Te is held off-campus at Allaso Ranch in Hawkins, TX. Students attending the retreat will check in at TJC’s main campus and all attendees will ride the charter buses from TJC to Allaso Ranch. According to our student travel policy, all students must be transported from Tyler Junior College by way of TJC transportation. Additionally, TJC personnel will coordinate transportation for attendees during the retreat for emergencies, as parents or guardians are not allowed to personally drop off/retrieve students from the retreat location.


Can I use my cell phone during Ya-A-Te?

We prefer students connect with fellow Apaches while at Ya-A-Te. Tyler Junior College is not responsible for lost or stolen cell phones. Signal strength can be poor, but Wi-Fi is available in the main, indoor facility. We ask that attendees restrict cell phone usage to free time and in cabins.


Are meals provided for Ya-A-Te?

Yes. Two meals on Day 1, Three  meals on Day 2 and Two meals on Day 3 are included in the registration fee, as well as refreshments will be served during night activities. Please note on your registration form if you have any special dietary needs and we will do our best to accommodate your requests.


Can I pay for Ya-A-Te when I arrive?

No. All students must register and submit payment for Ya-A-Te to complete their registration. Walk-ins will not be accepted as space is limited.


Who can attend the Ya-A-Te?

Ya-A-Te is designed to meet the needs of both freshmen and sophomore students. Students must be registered for fall classes at TJC prior to attending the retreat.


What should I pack for Ya-A-Te?

  • Bedding (Pillow, blanket/sleeping bag, fitted twin-size sheet)
  • Personal items  ( Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Deodorant, Shampoo, Soap, Brush, etc.)
  • Shorts/Casual Clothing
  • Swimsuit
  • Sneakers/Socks
  • Shower Shoes
  • Bug Spray
  • Sun Screen
  • Sleep Wear
  • Towels (beach and shower)
  • Theme event attire – Pool Party & Dress as your favorite Holiday

Please bring pages C, F, G, and H of the Student Travel Guidelines.