New Student and Family Convocation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is New Student and Family Convocation?
Convocation serves as your induction into the university. This annual event is designed specifically for new members of the SDSU community and symbolically represents their embarkation on a new academic journey. It promotes the institutional values of scholarship, citizenship and leadership. At convocation, faculty, students and administrators will officially welcome new students and their families. Last year, more than 6,500 new students and their families attended New Student and Family Convocation.

Why should I go?
This experience is very important as students begin their college careers, and all new students are expected to attend. The ceremony is an important step as students and their families recognize their entrance into the university community. It also serves to "bookend" each student's collegiate experience, with convocation as the opening ceremony and commencement as the final goal. Students will be presented to the Dean of their college. Parents and other family members are encouraged to attend as well.

Should transfer students attend New Student and Family Convocation?
Absolutely! New Student and Family Convocation is designed for ALL new undergraduate students — including freshmen and transfer students and their families.

Is there a cost to attend the event?
No. This is a free event.

Where do I park?
New Student and Family Convocation participants should park in Parking Structure 5 or 6. You will not be ticketed if you park in student (S) or faculty (F/S) spaces. Do not park in "Special Permit" or red zones. Park in handicapped spaces only if you have the appropriate permit.

• Parking Structure 5 is near Viejas Arena (map).
• Parking Structure 6 is close to the majority of residence halls (map).

Can I take the trolley to campus?
Yes, you can avoid driving and parking if you take the trolley to SDSU. Find details online. (Note: SDSU is on the green line.)

Where do I sit in the arena?
During the ceremony, students and their family members will be seated by college. Students who are undeclared will be seated in "Undergraduate Studies."

What should I bring to Convocation?
Viejas Arena does not allow you to bring anything larger than a purse inside the arena.

Will food be available?
Concession stands at Viejas Arena will be open and will be selling light breakfast foods (coffee, muffins, etc.).

How long will the ceremony last?
Guests will be leaving the arena at approximately 11:15 am. Students and guests will be recessed in an orderly fashion. Marshals will be available to help direct guests back to the parking structures, residence halls, and other locations on campus.

Do I need tickets?
No, your invitation to the event serves as your ticket. Please RSVP, indicating the total number attending (including the student), so that we can prepare appropriately.

What assistance is available for making travel arrangements?
We offer special discounts on rental car, shuttle, and hotel accommodations.

Are students required to have completed the Common Experience book prior to New Student and Family Convocation?
As new members of the SDSU academic community, all incoming freshmen and transfer students are strongly encouraged to read the Common Experience book prior to New Student and Family Convocation. Doing so gives you the opportunity to experience the kind of work expected of you as university students. It also gives you the opportunity to develop and explore ideas in comfortable environments.

The Common Experience consists of a collection of events and activities throughout the calendar year.

What should I wear?
Dress is casual. Attendees are encouraged to wear red and black. Please wear comfortable shoes.

Can I pick up my E-Z books at the SDSU Bookstore after New Student and Family Convocation?
Yes, you are encouraged pick up your E-Z books at the Bookstore, which will be open until 4 pm on that day.