Welcome to Penn State, Class of 2027!

Incoming first-year students made their way to Rec Hall Sunday for the annual “Be A Part From The Start” pep rally. The event helps first-year students learn the many chants, cheers, and traditions at Penn State while getting to know the familiar faces of blue-and-white leadership within Athletics, administration, and around town.

Students filed into Rec Hall through a tunnel of shakers, filled with excitement at the culmination of their first weekend at Penn State.

A few notable figures stopped by to introduce themselves, like State College Mayor Ezra Nanes, Penn State Alumni Association President Paul Clifford, and the leaders of various student groups.

The cheer team, joined by the Nittany Lion, pumped up the crowd with some chants, accompanied by the Blue Band. First-year students got their first taste of the cheers and chants they’ll hear at football games in just a few weeks’ time.

The Lionettes kept the good times rolling with a high-energy dance routine that ended with their signature kickline.

The men’s hockey team, women’s hockey team, women’s volleyball team, and football team all came out to introduce themselves to the students amid roars of cheers from the Class of 2027.

The men’s basketball team also made an appearance alongside head coach Mike Rhoades.

For the grand finale, Blue Band Director Dr. Gregory Drane led the students and the Blue Band in a handful of fight songs, ensuring the class was excited and ready for football season.

As with all events at Penn State, the night wrapped up with the singing of the Alma Mater.