Students

First 56 Sarasota-Manatee Campus

Signature Events

The First 56 is eight weeks packed with events and activities to help our new Bulls dive into campus life, find awesome resources, and get set-up for success both in class and beyond!

For the latest updates and information, check out Sarasota-Manatee's First 56 BullsConnect page. 

56 Things to do in your first 56 days!

Your first eight weeks on campus is the perfect time to explore, connect, and make USF your home. We've put together a list of 56 fun, meaningful, and must-do activities to help you make the most of your first 56 days as a Bull! 

First 56 Things to Do

Explore the List of 56 Things to Do in Your First 56 Days!

  1. Experience the tradition and attend a Week of Welcome signature event listed at usf.edu/wow.
  2. Get a head start on your next semester by meeting with your academic advisor.
  3. Learn all the best tricks for college success by meeting with your Peer Advisor Leader (PAL).
  4. Get some goodies by attending the monthly BullMarket.
  5. Capture a memorable moment by taking a picture with our mascot, Rocky D. Bull.
  6. Soak up the vibrant campus atmosphere by experiencing the Campus Student Center 2nd Floor Terrace.
  7. Feel the incredible energy of a USF Athletics Football game in Tampa by tailgating and sitting in the student section at a home game in Raymond James Stadium.
  8. Navigate campus with ease by participating in a Walk and Talk with your Peer Advisor Leader (PAL).
  9. Show off your Bull pride by buying merch at the USF Bookstore.
  10. Get personalized guidance and support by meeting one-on-one with your Peer Advisor Leader.
  11. Find your perfect fit by discovering and joining a student organization on BullsConnect or at Bullpen, our student engagement fair!
  12. Join in the excitement and celebrate school spirit by attending all of the Homecoming events.
  13. Create lasting memories with your loved ones by enjoying time at Family Weekend on Tampa campus.
  14. Discover exciting opportunities for employment by looking for an on-campus job using Handshake.
  15. Be captivated by talent and creativity by attending a musical by Sarasota’s Florida Studio Theatre.
  16. Boost your well-being and get active by stopping by the Campus Fitness Center.
  17. Find your escape from studying by taking a break at Siesta Key Beach.
  18. Catch some incredible live entertainment by attending an Office of Student Engagement event.
  19. Find your ideal spot to study, play a game, or simply unwind in The Loft on the 2nd floor of the Campus Student Center.
  20. Enjoy tasty treats and some friendly competition by grabbing a snack from Nectar & Co. and playing a game of pool in the Student Center 1st Floor Student Lounge.
  21. Get ready for some fun by checking out sports equipment to use on the outdoor multipurpose court including pickleball, basketball, and dodgeball equipment.
  22. Dive into the world of gaming by visiting the Game Room in the Campus Student Center, complete with Nintendo Switch and PS5.
  23. Take in the courtyard views from the Student Center’s 2nd floor Terrace.
  24. Find your perfect outdoor study oasis in our campus courtyard.
  25. Discover a vibrant community by attending an event hosted by a Registered Student Organization.
  26. Challenge yourself and have an adventure at TreeUmph! Adventure Course in Bradenton.
  27. Need more adventure? Check out what the Adventure Club has in store for you on BullsConnect.
  28. Spot the Atala butterflies, which can be found year-round on our campus.
  29. Broaden your horizons and learn something new at a University Lecture Series event.
  30. Escape campus stress and embark on an exciting journey by going on an Outdoor Adventure with Campus Recreation.
  31. Grab a selfie with our Rocky D. Bull Statue in the campus courtyard!
  32. Immerse yourself in contemporary art by visiting the Sarasota Art Museum.
  33. Explore a world where education, science, and innovation by visiting the Campus Collaboratory!
  34. Expand your career knowledge and grab a cup of coffee by stopping by Coffee & Career Chats hosted by the Center for Career & Professional Development.
  35. Treat yourself to a South Florida culinary classic by grabbing a Pub Sub from Publix 5 minutes from campus.
  36. Enjoy a special treat and show your school spirit by wearing green every Wednesday and getting a free soda from Nectar & Co.
  37. Let your voice be heard by meeting with your StudentGovernment leaders whose offices are located on in The Loft.
  38. Feel safe and secure on campus by connecting with Campus Security.
  39. Set yourself up for success by exploring majors and career options by completing the Career Navigator: Kickstart Your Career Journey in Canvas.
  40. Dare to succeed and achieve academic excellence by working with a peer tutor in STEM, writing, and connect with a Tutor in the FishBull.
  41. Discover inspiring works of art and history by visiting The Ringling Muesum, with free admission for USF Students.
  42. Support your community or find assistance by donating or picking up an item from the Feed-A-Bull food pantry.
  43. Stay informed about all things USF by keeping up with the online student newspaper, The Oracle.
  44. Create your own campus experience by stopping by the Office of Student Engagement with 5 of your friends and registering your own student organization!
  45. Connect with nature and find tranquility by visiting the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
  46. Witness a spectacular view by watching the sunrise or sunset at Lido Beach.
  47. Make a meaningful difference in the USF Community by participating in Service Saturdays hosted by the Office of Student Engagement.
  48. Relax by the courtyard pond on campus and see the local Gopher Tortoises swim around!
  49. Get ready for your big interview by stopping by the Career Closet and picking up free professional attire.
  50. Uncover hidden gems and quiet study spots by visiting Info Commons in the Main Academic building.
  51. Experience a night of fun and excitement by attending a Bulls Nite Out event.
  52. Recharge your phone while you relax in the Student Center with our Student Government sponsored charging stations!
  53. Get your fitness journey by walking the nature trails around campus!
  54. Treat your taste buds to local flavors by visiting University Town Center, hosting over 90 dining options.
  55. Access valuable resources for your health and well-being by getting free health resources from the Student Health & Wellness Center.
  56. Complete AlcoholEDU and learn ways to be safe around alcohol and other substances.