Connecting points
There can be so much to learn when starting a new chapter. We want you to succeed, so we’ve collected some of our best resources on academics, campus and community to make you feel at home.
Stampede to success
Start the school year strong! We have resources, events and tips from students just like you.
Welcome to SMU! Getting settled into campus doesn’t stop after Move-In and Stampede – our First 5 program is designed to help you get involved and stay engaged with the campus and your new community through a series of student experiences. Some you do on your own, and some you do with others. Click the button below to learn more and scroll through the page for additional resources. Still have questions? Ask the chatbot by clicking the speech bubble icon in the bottom right corner. Pony Up!
Hear from our students
Callie Jacobs ’23
The San Antonio native and STEM student tried out for the cheer team, which brought her to SMU – but the culture of the students is what kept her here. “We’re all super driven in our respective fields but also love living life, love going to football games and really love exploring everything Dallas has to offer,” she says.
Nick Fontela ’20, ’22
After completing his undergraduate degree at SMU, Nick chose to stay on for his master’s degree in accounting. He credits the people as his top reason for choosing SMU. “They seemed genuinely invested and interested in me, both as an academic and student but also as an individual,” he says.
Yvonne Yang ’24
Yvonne was admittedly nervous when she first came to SMU from her native China to study film. But, she says, once she was here, the diversity of the film department won her over. She also found community in the data science program, which she added as a second major.
Connect with fellow students
We asked our students and young alumni to submit their best tips for incoming undergraduates – and they delivered!
We love to stay connected with students on social. Follow along and watch for more tips!
Go, see and do
Night at the Club
Once you’re moved in, get ready for Night at the Club on Saturday, August 19, at 9 p.m. – a longtime SMU tradition where incoming students learn about the myriad of extracurriculars on campus. Come learn about groups and organizations, club sports and so much more. Bonus: It’s a great way to meet new people!
First football game
Come show your brand-new pony pride at the SMU Mustangs home opener against Louisiana Tech on Saturday, September 2, at 11 a.m. Remember, we don’t tailgate – we Boulevard. Stroll up and down, say hey to friends and get ready for the game. And, don’t forget to wear white and show your spirit at this white-out game.
Family Weekend
Whether your family lives across an ocean or across the street, all are welcome for Family Weekend, September 29–30. Join us on Friday for information sessions hosted by departments across campus, a welcome reception, a fish fry with the Association of Black Students, Night on the Lawn and, of course, the football game versus UNC Charlotte on Saturday.
Ready to learn more about SMU?
Think SMU might be the place for you? There’s so much more to explore about our campus and community. We’d love for you to be part of the stampede next year.
