New Student Convocation

New Student Convocation is the official academic welcome for first-year students and marks your entrance into the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. As a new UL Lafayette student, you will have the chance to meet with fellow classmates and faculty, as well as learn about opportunities awaiting you in your college.

New Student Convocation 2019 is Coming!

Last year, the freshman class filled the Cajundome during New Student Convocation 2018 and heard from Olympian Hollis Conway, student entrepreneurs and adventurers, and University President Joseph Savoie and Provost Jaimie Hebert.

When and where is Convocation 2019?

New Student Convocation is Thursday, August 22, 2019 at the Cajundome.

All incoming, first-year UL Lafayette students are required to attend convocation. You must bring your Cajun Card, which will be scanned on the way out to confirm your attendance.

Information for Faculty & Staff

Faculty and staff are encouraged to attend New Student Convocation. See all Convocation info for faculty and staff. 

What happens at Convocation?

Students, alumni, and faculty will share their own experiences and advice — about making the most of your time at UL Lafayette, finding your people, and making your mark.

Everyone attending convocation is invited to the reception afterwards, where light refreshments will be provided.

How do I get there?

New Student Convocation is happening at the Cajundome, which is next to Cajun Field. You can either drive/bike/walk there yourself, or you can take the University shuttle for free.

Take the University Shuttle

Starting at 2 p.m., all University buses will stop at the Cajundome (in addition to all other regular stops). You can hop on the shuttle either on Rex Street or in front of the Student Union on McKinley Street.

Buses will also be running when convocation ends, so you can get back to campus easily.

Drive or Bike Yourself

If you want to drive yourself, you will need to park at Cajun Field and walk through the tunnel under Cajundome Boulevard to get to the ceremony.

If you want to bike, we've mapped out the most protected route to get to Cajun Field.

What if I have other questions?

Contact the Office of First-Year Experience at ofye@louisiana.edu or 337-482-6599.