FLEX is a freshman leadership organization that was founded in 2015.
ABOUT FRESHMAN LEADERS ESTABLISHING EXCELLENCE
FLEX 's Mission & Purpose: The purpose of FLEX is to provide freshmen with an opportunity to expand their Aggie Network through meeting new freshmen, upperclassmen, and guest speakers. This is an opportunity for freshmen to develop, mature, and build lasting friendships through social events and service to the community, both on and off campus. It is our mission to foster a supportive, inclusive, and nurturing environment that upholds the integrity of our organization and guides freshmen into becoming leaders at Texas A&M. FLEX encourages its members to pursue the best versions of themselves, and equips freshmen to leave a positive impact at Texas A&M and beyond.
The Basics
FLEX has 74 staff members (15 Zone Leaders, 5 Executives, 36 Bigs, and 18 Grandbigs), and we're looking to find 72 freshmen. Dues are $150 for the entire year and they pay for retreats, a FLEX t-shirt, and FLEX meetings.
Meetings
Meetings are mandatory and will be held every Monday night from 8:00-9:00.
Retreats & Events
We have a Fall Retreat and a Spring Retreat that takes place on facilities outside of campus/out-of-town. Additionally, the Social Zone organizes the Fall Semi-Formal and Spring Banquet along with other social events such as Co-Zone Events and more. Public Relations organizes a Family Weekend event annually for FLEX members and their families as well.
Service & Leadership
Throughout the year, FLEX provides service opportunities for members including visiting the local retirement homes, participating in Shackathon for Habitat for Humanity, bake sales, volunteering at the Brazos Valley Foodbank, and more. Members are encouraged to develop and practice leadership through their zone, hearing from guest speakers, team building activities during general meetings, and seeking opportunities outside of FLEX. Additionally, the Leadership Development Zone organizes a Leadership Conference each year.
Zones
Zones are where work gets done. Freshmen are divided into five zones: Leadership Development, Service, Social, Fundraising, and Public Relations. Each zone is led by three Zone Leaders. Zones help develop leadership skills and allow for mentorship and bonding. Freshmen are in charge of coming up with and planning events throughout the year. Each zone meets once a week after the general meeting.
Big/Little Program
The Big/Little program provides support to the freshmen during their first year. Freshmen are put into "families" that are led by a pair of bigs and a grand big. Bigs hold hangouts for their freshmen. This gives freshmen a chance to interact with people outside their zones. There are 18 "families" in FLEX.