The First UGA Tradition: Freshman Welcome
Freshman Welcome 2023 is August 15 at 6 pm! For more information, please visit alumni.uga.edu/freshmanwelcome.
Before Calling the Dawgs during the first home football game of the season, ringing the Chapel Bell after acing a test, or taking photos at the Arch after graduation, each University of Georgia student steps barefoot ‘Between the Hedges’ and assembles into the iconic “G” for their official class photo during Freshman Welcome.
Freshman Welcome is an annual event hosted by the Student Alumni Council, Student Government Association and the Office of the President. This event provides the opportunity for first-year students to stand under the Sanford Stadium lights and be officially welcomed into the Bulldog family.
This year, Freshman Welcome occurred on Sunday, August 11, with a pre-party in Reed Plaza featuring a rock climbing wall, snow cones, a mechanical bulldog and upperclassman celebrating the arrival of the Class of 2022.
After much anticipation, UGA ’22 was welcomed into the stadium for the first time as University of Georgia students. Prior to stepping foot on the field, first-year students were greeted by Student Government Association President Ammishaddai Grand-Jean and Student Alumni Council President Nash Davis. Following, UGA President Jere Morehead (JD ’80) welcomed the students to the University. UGA ’22 also heard from head football coach, Kirby Smart (BBA ’98) and men’s basketball head coach, Tom Crean.
After learning the game day cheers and traditions, UGA ’22 took to the field for their official class photo. Following the photograph, students snapped photos on the field before going back to their residence halls to prep for their first day of college classes.
Welcome to the Bulldog family, Class of 2022! We’re so glad you’re here.
Posted by University of Georgia on Sunday, August 12, 2018
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