The University of Georgia hosted its annual Freshman Welcome on Tuesday night at Sanford Stadium. The event greets new freshmen with free food, merchandise and the formation of the traditional “Power G.”
The evening began with students checking in and receiving free Chick-fil-A and drinks. On the way to their orientation groups, freshmen had the opportunity to try out a rock climbing wall and talk to other students.
The pep rally began with welcoming messages from several campus leaders, including Student Government Association President Rock Rogers, UGA President Jere W. Morehead, head football coach Kirby Smart and Student Alumni Council President Willis Tripp.
Morehead welcomed the new students and gave them advice for the start of the new school year.
“Be balanced and enjoy this moment,” Morehead said. “Because your time as a student at the university will be the best four years you’ve ever had.”
Morehead also offered some advice to freshmen students who want to be successful on the first day of class: “Sit at the front of the room, pay attention, and follow the syllabus.”
The freshmen learned UGA’s popular chants and cheers for football games. They also had the opportunity to show their school spirit by dancing with the UGA Spirit Squad and cheerleaders and – of course – taking photos to celebrate the start of their college careers.
A group of University of Georgia freshmen cheer during the Freshman Welcome event at the University of Georgia’s Sanford Stadium in Athens, Ga., Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. The University of Georgia’s incoming class of 2028 brings with it over 6,100 students, many of whom joined together for the “Super G” at Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium. (Photo/Felix Scheyer @felixscheyer)
Freshman Augustine Esenabhalu, who is studying computer science, said he is most excited about starting his major and his goal for the year is to maintain a 4.0 grade point average.
Emma Lindsey, who is studying business administration, and her friend Katie Gill, who is studying finance, talked about what they are most looking forward to about starting their studies.
“I’m looking forward to fall,” Lindsey said. “The leaves changing in Athens will be so beautiful.”
UGA welcomed the Class of 2028 at graduation by having them form the “Power G” on Dooley Field and take their turn to participate in the iconic annual photo.
