The University of Texas at Austin Welcomes New Longhorns with Spirit, Pride, and Purpose During Orientation Weekend from July 7–9
From the very first moment new students and their families stepped foot on the Forty Acres for Orientation Weekend, July 7–9, the energy was unmistakable. There’s something special about arriving at The University of Texas at Austin—not just because of its prestigious academic reputation or Big 12-to-SEC athletic prestige, but because of the sheer spirit that radiates from every inch of the campus. From the iconic UT Tower to the echoes of “Hook ’em Horns” in every corner, Orientation Weekend 2025 was a celebration of legacy, ambition, and new beginnings.
Across three packed days, thousands of incoming freshmen and transfer students experienced their first taste of life as a Texas Longhorn. For many, it was a dream years in the making. For others, it was the first time they had ever stepped foot on a college campus. But no matter where they came from or what led them to UT, the Orientation Weekend made one thing clear: they belong here.
Hosted by New Student Services, Orientation was designed not just to register students for classes, but to initiate them into one of the most unique, vibrant, and historic academic communities in the country. The university pulled out all the stops, with an itinerary that blended important information with genuine moments of connection, excitement, and school pride.
Check-in began early Sunday morning, July 7, as students poured into Jester Center and the Student Activity Center, greeted by cheerful student leaders in burnt orange shirts waving signs and calling out, “Welcome, future Longhorns!” Each student received an orientation packet, their name badge, and of course, plenty of Texas swag—from foam fingers to stickers to the ever-essential water bottles with the Longhorn logo.
Families were encouraged to participate as well, with a separate track of sessions meant to ease the transition for parents and guardians. They heard from faculty, advisors, and student life coordinators about what to expect in the year ahead, and how best to support their students from afar.
Meanwhile, students kicked off their own schedule with a powerful welcome session at the Frank Erwin Center. Interim President Jim Davis took the stage and delivered a speech that was both motivational and deeply personal. He reflected on the role of education in shaping lives and challenged the new class to embrace not just the opportunities at UT, but the responsibilities that come with being a part of such a dynamic academic family.
“Being a Longhorn means striving for excellence—in the classroom, on the field, in your community, and in your values,” Davis told the packed arena. “You’ve earned your place here, and now, it’s time to define what that place means for you.”
From there, students were divided into small groups led by upperclassman Orientation Advisors—mentors who shared their own stories, offered advice, and helped new students navigate the social and logistical whirlwind of starting college life. These groups formed fast bonds, many of which will likely extend beyond Orientation and well into the school year.
Throughout Sunday and Monday, students attended academic advising sessions tailored to their majors, met with peer mentors, and got their first official class schedules. For some, this was the moment it all became real. Seeing your name beside course titles like “UGS 302: Signature Course” or “CH 301: Principles of Chemistry” marked the true beginning of the college journey.
But Orientation wasn’t all about paperwork and planning. UT made sure to include plenty of time for fun—and a few iconic traditions. From the Bevo Showcase and Campus Scavenger Hunt to live performances from student orgs and outdoor movie screenings on the South Mall, every evening buzzed with activity. There was even a late-night silent disco in the Texas Union, giving students a chance to dance, laugh, and let loose without disturbing the city skyline.
One of the most anticipated events was the “Longhorn State of Mind” celebration, held Monday evening at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. Under the lights of the legendary field where Texas football history has been made time and again, students took part in a massive group photo on the 50-yard line, shaped into the form of the Longhorn logo. They chanted the school song “The Eyes of Texas,” cheered alongside cheerleaders and Hook ’Em the mascot, and got their first real feel for what it means to wear burnt orange with pride.
For many, that moment—surrounded by thousands of peers, with the UT Tower glowing in the background—was unforgettable.
“I’ve been nervous about college, but standing there, singing with everyone and seeing the unity… I knew I was home,” said Kiara, a first-year student from El Paso. “It felt like I was part of something way bigger than myself.”
Students also had the chance to explore the broader university community through the “Horn Showcase,” a massive involvement fair featuring hundreds of student organizations, cultural groups, academic societies, intramural sports teams, and community service programs. It was a visual and auditory feast, with tables filled with flyers, treats, sign-up sheets, and music. It was here that students discovered their first clubs, picked up information about internships, and learned how to get involved in student government, Greek life, or even student-run media.
Diversity and inclusion were front and center throughout Orientation. Sessions on identity, equity, and cultural awareness ensured that new Longhorns understood UT’s commitment to building a campus where all students—regardless of background—can thrive. Peer panels gave honest insights into student life, covering everything from roommate conflicts to finding mental health resources. Orientation leaders didn’t shy away from hard conversations; they embraced them, knowing that the first step toward community is shared understanding.
Another vital part of Orientation was the introduction to campus safety, wellness, and support resources. University Health Services, the Counseling and Mental Health Center, and Title IX officials provided clear pathways for students to seek help if they ever need it. The message was clear: You are never alone at UT.
By Tuesday morning, July 9, as students gathered one last time before departing until the fall semester, emotions were high. The Orientation staff closed out the program with one final rally—reminding students of the commitments they’d made to themselves, their peers, and the university.
“You’ll walk out of here today not just as students,” said one senior Orientation Leader. “You’re Longhorns now. That means something.”
As parents helped their children pack up and head back home, there was a collective sense of both pride and anticipation. For many families, this weekend marked the beginning of a new chapter. Tears were shed, hugs were long, and hopes ran high.
For the university, Orientation Weekend 2025 was more than just a logistical success—it was a reaffirmation of everything The University of Texas at Austin stands for: academic excellence, spirited tradition, relentless curiosity, and above all, a community that welcomes all who walk its paths with open arms.
And for the students who stood on that field, chanted in that arena, and walked those storied campus sidewalks for the first time, it marked the beginning of a journey they’ll never forget.
They came as individuals. They left as Longhorns.
