Freshmen Take Part in an #UncommonTradition, Freshman Pep Rally

Photo by Alejandro Zeballos

The Class of 2019 form the Arkansas "A" on the football field.

There really isn't anything like the sound of school spirit, especially when its Razorback spirit.

And there was no mistaking the school pride displayed at this year's Freshman Pep Rally. Incoming students participated in the school spirit event on Aug. 27 in the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium showing off their loud pride and even louder voices.

New freshman students cheered and chanted along with cheerleaders, spirit teams, sports teams and the pep band. Freshman learned all of the official cheers used during sporting events and, of course, practiced calling the hogs.

Eva Puga, University Programs member, said the Freshman Pep Rally is always one of the most exciting events for incoming students.

"It's like a transition from high school to college," Puga said. "It's the first event for the freshman that really makes them feel like a Razorback for the first time."

University Programs, which hosted the event, has been working hard to make the Freshman Pep Rally a success.

University Programs puts on a spirit competition between the residence halls and sorority houses. The house or hall with the loudest school spirit during the event is awarded the Spirit Stick.

For the residence halls, Hotz Hall took home the coveted prize, as did Phi Mu, which won in the sorority competition.

"I think it's a great way to connect with everyone in the Class of 2019," said Trisha Blau, assistant director of programming for student activities. "It's a great way to learn all the traditions and get prepared for the first football game."

In 2014 the Freshman Pep Rally was recognized by the National Association of Campus Activities as the "Best Campus Tradition" for the building of school pride and unity it brings about in students.

Baylor Bush, a Chi Omega and incoming freshman, said the pep rally is a Razorback tradition she won't soon forget.

"This is just so much fun," Bush said. "I've never experienced anything like this. I like how this event brings everyone together through school spirit. You realize how connected everyone is."

The night ended with the signature part of the event — the freshman "A" photo on the game field.  The pep rally is the freshmen's one opportunity to get on the field during their college career. Student Affairs will provide a free poster of this class of 2019 photo to every freshman student.