Stampede
August 16-23
Note: Move-in occurs August 14-15
Get ready to begin your SMU journey! Life at SMU starts with events, traditions, and opportunities designed just for you. Explore the full lineup of events below and make the most of your first week at SMU.
Students
All new students are expected to attend Stampede. Orientation is your time to make friends, learn our amazing traditions, explore campus, and learn how to be a successful student both in and outside of the classroom.
Move-in occurs on Aug 14-15
Stampede occurs on Aug 16-23
Be sure to bring your Student ID and wear your name badge to every event during Stampede. You can acquire your name badge at Stampede Check-in in the Lower Level of the Hughes-Trigg Student Center on both Move-in Days (Aug 14-15). Stampede Check-in will occur from 12:30-5 p.m. each move-in day.
During Stampede, you will use the SMU360 app to access your Stampede schedule in real time and check in to the events you attend. Because attendance at some Stampede events is required, you must download the SMU360 app and have it ready to use.
Dallas, TX weather is typically over 95 degrees during the summer. Although most of our events are indoors, there are some activities taking place outside and will involve walking across campus. Make sure to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and light clothing to stay cool and hydrated!
Utilize your Stampede Guide! Each student will be assigned a Color Group led by Stampede Guides. They serve as mentors and trusted resources—answering questions, easing nerves, and helping you feel confident and prepared for your first day of class.
Your Stampede Guides will also lead a few "Crew Conversations". Crew Conversations are a great way to connect with new students and learn about college life!
Students should park in their assigned parking permit areas during Stampede. Commuter students are permitted to park in commuter area lots or their assigned parking area should they already have an acquired permit.
General parking information can be found on the Parking and ID Services website.
Don’t forget to walk your class schedule and get comfortable finding buildings on campus. Familiarize yourself with campus using our interactive map!
Wearing white is an SMU tradition for students to the Rotunda Passage and Convocation ceremony. After the ceremony, students will dine together at Banquet on the Boulevard underneath the treeline of Bishop Boulevard. After the banquet, students may change into more comfortable clothing for the remainder of the day's activities.
Parents and Families
Although we love having families on campus, Stampede is the start of student-only events. Families are welcome to explore the DFW area but they should not expect to participate past our move-in days. A Family Farewell will be offered to any remaining families on the morning of August 16.
Be sure to pack necessary items for your time on campus, such as comfortable shoes and light clothing. Stay hydrated as campus is typically hot in the summer.
Take a look at the Stampede schedule provided on this page to plan out which sessions and events you wish to attend during our move-in days. Remember, aside from some minor differences, session times are the same for each day of move-in.
Dinner will be hosted by the SMU Mothers and Dads club in Umphrey-Lee Dining Hall each move-in day. This is a great way to connect with other families and alums at SMU. You can get a head start connecting with families on our Parent and Family Experience Portal.
Familiarize yourself with campus beforehand to help you navigate move-in days more efficiently. A helpful tool is our interactive map!
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Tradition, Spirit, and New Beginnings
Stampede is a Mustang-filled welcome week where new students dive into campus life with exciting events, traditions, and lifelong friendships. From the walking through Dallas Hall during Rotunda Passage to late-night hangouts and settling into your new home, it’s the ultimate way to kick off your SMU journey!
Class Photo
The class photo tradition gathers students in front of Dallas Hall to form their graduation year, creating an aerial snapshot of their class.
Rotunda Passage
The tradition of the Rotunda Passage is made up of two events – Rotunda Processional and Rotunda Recessional – that symbolize students’ formal introduction and completion of their SMU journey.
Rec Night
Play sports, workout, take a group fitness class, and get competitive in Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports!
Stampede Sundown
Enjoy a night filled with music, great food, yard activities, and SMU traditions.
Engage with SMU Leaders
Meet and hear directly from SMU and student leaders.
Pony Up!
Create lasting memories with new friends and explore your home for the next four years!