Gator Traditions

At San Francisco State University we believe that your college experience teaches you and others. Our motto is "Experience Teaches" -- so it's about immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of university life and exploring the rich culture of the City by the Bay - San Francisco. We want you to tell your story. Our campus is alive with time-honored traditions that foster a sense of community and pride. From the entering class photo, meeting the Gator Mascot, to exploring this incredible region and city, you'll find that these traditions unite students, faculty, and alumni in a shared sense of belonging.

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Download the Traditions Guide

Capture the Moments: #SFSUTraditions Photos! 📸 🎉

Get ready to snap, share, and win with our exciting #SFSUTraditions Photo Contest! 📸✨ We believe in celebrating the moments that make your college journey unforgettable. Whether you're embracing time-honored campus traditions or embarking on off-the-beaten-path San Francisco adventures, we want you to capture those memories and share them us and the with the world.

How to Participate:

  1. Strike a Pose: Gather your friends, roommates, or go solo – it's time to capture your #SFSUTraditions moments! Whether you're draped in university colors, enjoying a scenic view, or taking a bite out of a local delicacy, every snapshot counts.

  2. Snap & Share: Take your best shots and share them on your favorite social media platform (Instagram, Twitter, etc,). Don't forget to use the hashtag #SFSUTraditions in your caption!

  3. Win Big: By participating, you're automatically entered into our campaign and may even spotlight your photo on our University channels. Get ready to win awesome prizes that range from university swag to exclusive San Francisco experiences. Your photo could earn you more than just likes – it could land you some incredible friends and memories! 

Why Join the Fun?

🏆 Prizes Galore: We're not just talking about a pat on the back – we've lined up an array of exciting prizes that'll leave you grinning from ear to ear.

📢 Share Your Story: Your photos tell a story, and we want to hear it! Show us how you're blending campus traditions with San Francisco adventures, and inspire others to create their own unforgettable experiences.

🤳 Connect and Engage: Join a community of fellow students who are capturing the essence of university life and exploring the wonders of San Francisco. Your photos could spark conversations, friendships, and maybe even some new adventures.

Help Us Spread the Word

Help us make the #SFSU Traditions Campaign! Spread the word among your friends, classmates, and roommates. Encourage them to share their unique experiences and create a vibrant collage of memories that truly embody the spirit of San Francisco State University and San Francisco.

Let the Snapping Begin!

Capture the spirit of tradition, the thrill of exploration, and the joy of college life. The #SFSUTraditions Campaign is your chance to shine, share, and win big. So grab your camera, gather your friends, and let the world see the incredible journey you're on!

Remember, every photo is a chance to win and an opportunity to showcase what makes SFSU and the City by the Bay so extraordinary. Get snapping and let the sharing begin! 📸🌁

Everyone Passing Moment is Worth Sharing!

students dancing
students and friends posing for a photo
students posing for a photo on a beach with a fire
students in a play pin with inflatable objects competing
students admiring a pacific coast sunset
SFSU Students Graduation

Tradition & Discovery!

Campus Traditions: Where Memories are Made

Discover the heart and soul of our campus through a diverse array of traditions that make your university so unique. Whether it's the electrifying energy of GatorFest!, the heartwarming Entering Class Photo, meeting Ali the Gator Mascot for the first time, SF SketchFest Comedy Show, or the exhilarating Student Life programs throughout the Fall & Spring term, each tradition weaves its own story into the fabric of our university. Immerse yourself in these cherished moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring San Francisco: Unveiling Hidden Gems

But wait, there's more! Your time at SF State isn't limited to campus boundaries. As you step out into the bustling streets of San Francisco, a world of exploration and adventure awaits. From the iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park or just the aweinspirining landscapes, to the lesser-known treasures like hidden rooftop gardens and tucked-away art galleries, you'll uncover the City by the Bay's best-kept secrets.

Beyond the Ordinary: Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Our curated checklist will lead you to experience San Francisco like a true local. Embark on foodie adventures through diverse neighborhoods, hop on a cable car for a ride that's both nostalgic and scenic, or venture into the city's thriving arts scenes. Whether it's just a day on the bay, exploring the historic murals of the Mission District, or indulging in a classic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman's Wharf, you'll have the opportunity to forge your own path of exploration.

Crafting Your College Story

Your journey at SF State is not just about the present; it's about building a legacy for future generations. Embrace our campus traditions, uncover the hidden treasures of San Francisco, and blend the two into a unique narrative that defines your college experience. Join us in creating traditions of your own and leaving an indelible mark on both our university and the City by the Bay. If you think we need to add a new tradition or a must-do for a San Francisco State Student, share it and tag us: #SFSUTraditions 

Ready to Begin?

Dive into a world of tradition, adventure, and exploration. Whether you're a new student looking to make lasting memories or a seasoned scholar seeking new horizons, start exploring today and embrace being the Gator you want to be!

Join us in celebrating the past, savoring the present, and shaping the future. Your adventure starts here. 🎉🌁

#SFSUTraditions