Traditions are a meaningful aspect of the college experience at New Mexico State University and before classes for the 2026-2027 academic year start, NMSU will host several events to welcome first-year students.
Aggie Beginnings will take place Sunday, Aug. 16, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the Pan American Center. Aggie Beginnings will bring together freshman convocation, the first-year photo and the first-year walk as one experience welcoming NMSU’s newest students to the Aggie community.
Aggie Beginnings will commence with a student-led freshman convocation welcoming first-year students to campus. Upperclassmen and student groups will lead the program and will be joined by faculty, staff and administrators in celebrating the beginning of the academic journey for the incoming class. NMSU President Valerio Ferme and Associated Students of NMSU President Carina Frisch will welcome students and their family members to NMSU.
“Strong connections to the campus community are essential to student success. At New Mexico State, students, faculty, staff and administrators are committed to fostering a supportive environment where first-year students can thrive academically, grow personally and achieve their educational and career goals. The freshmen convocation and first-year walk are examples of our commitment to connecting with our newest Aggies,” Vice President for Student Enrollment and Success Tony Marin said.
As part of Aggie Beginnings, first-year students will gather for an annual class photo that captures the beginning of their NMSU experience. Students will then participate in the first-year walk, beginning at the Pan American Center and continuing across campus, ending at Miller Gates, a historic landmark located between Gerald Thomas Hall and Skeen Hall.
“At New Mexico State University, our traditions aren’t simply events on the calendar — they are experiences that connect students to our community and to one another,” said Ann Goodman, dean of students.
Aggie Beginnings will have food, a photobooth, giveaways and more available to participating Aggies.