A new flock of Golden Eagles is getting ready to descend on the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. Preparations for annual traditions like painting the Eagle Walk at USM are underway too!
Golden Eagle Welcome Week
There’s one “time-honored tradition” that began in 1997 that signals the “first of” many Southern Miss traditions. Each year, the incoming freshman class participates in Golden Eagle Welcome Week (GEWW).
GEWW is the second part of a three-part orientation for new students. It takes place right before the start of the fall semester.
During the fun-filled orientation week, students are divided into small groups. From there, they learn more about campus life and each other.
Students discover the Southern Miss spirit by learning more about campus traditions as well. They are presented with opportunities to connect with student organizations, groups and other resources.
It’s also during this week that the freshman class will participate in the first official Southern Miss tradition. They will break out the paint brushes, rollers and more gold paint than you can imagine.
It’s when the painting of the Eagle Walk at USM turns Eagle Walk Drive into a “street of gold.”
Eagle Walk Drive
Eagle Walk Drive is located under the east side of M.M. Roberts Stadium, also known as “The Rock.” Every year it gets a fresh coat of gold paint courtesy of the newest Golden Eagles.
The Student Alumni Association hosts what is usually students’ first major memory of and first contribution to the university. The painting of the Eagle Walk at USM includes tons of helping hands and entertainment. It wouldn’t be complete without gold handprints on walls, columns and each other.
Additional GEWW events include a keynote speaker, icebreakers, session rotations and much more.
Get connected
Specifics for the 2022 Golden Eagle Welcome Week have not been released, but students can always get social with USM for the latest news and announcements.
Connect with campus now on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Summary
Incoming freshman. Southern Miss spirit. Traditions. Are you USM fall-ready? Luckily, there is still time for you to pre-lease your home away from home at The Belmont! Contact us today to find out more. For more cool things to do in the Hub City, keep reading our blogs!