Issuu

TRANSITIONS

EDITORIAL

TABLE

OF CONTENTS

Ryan E. Ross

Cooglife Executive Editor cooglife@thedailycougar.com

Cooglife Contributor COVER

Raphael Fernandez

Successful Post Orientation Strategies Global Programs at UH

Raphael Fernandez ARTISTS Greetings,

EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to the University of Houston! In these pages you will learn about UH’s clubs and organizations, post orientation strategies, UH traditions, and much more. I hope you enjoy this issue, and I wish you all the best of luck. Go Coogs!

Until the next read,

Ryan E. Ross | Executive Editor

2026LeadershipTeamBios

2026 Leadership Team Bios

TheStudentOrientationLeadershipteamisdedicatedtocreatingawelcomingand impactfulexperienceforallnewstudentstransitioningintotheUniversityof Houston.Throughcollaboration,planning,andmentorship,theleadershipteam playsavitalroleinfosteringopportunitiesforacademic,social,andcultural engagementwithinNewStudentPrograms.

Diane,OrientationCaptain,Classof2028

DianeisasophomoremajoringinEconomicsintheCollegeofLiberalArts&Social SciencesattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromherstudies,Dianeplaystheflutefor ourdistinguisheduniversityband,TheSpiritofHouston.

Jada,OrientationCaptain,Classof2028

JadaisasophomoremajoringinBiologyinthecollegeofNaturalSciencesand MathematicsattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromherstudies,Jadaisamemberof theBlackStudentHealthAssociationoncampus.

Kendra,OrientationCaptain,Classof2027

KendraisajuniormajoringinCommunicationSciencesandDisorderswithaminorin SpanishintheCollegeofLiberalArtsandSocialSciencesattheUniversityofHouston. Asidefromherstudies,KendraisamemberoftheNationalStudentSpeechLanguage andHearingAssociationoncampus.

KT,OrientationCaptain,Classof2028

KTisasophomoremajoringinKinesiologywithaminorinHumanNutritioninthe CollegeofLiberalArts&SocialSciencesattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromhis studies,KTisaparticipantintheSafety&SecurityDepartmentoncampus.

Monique,OrientationCaptain,Classof2026

MoniqueisaseniormajoringinCommunicationSciencesandDisorderswithaminor inHumanDevelopmentandFamilySciencesintheCollegeofLiberalArtsandSocial SciencesattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromherstudies,Moniqueisalsoa memberoftheNationalStudentSpeechLanguageandHearingAssociationandthe AmericanSignLanguageSocietyoncampus.

Ourleaderscomefromavarietyofbackgrounds,majors,andexperiencesbutthey allhaveonethingincommon:adeeplovefortheUniversityofHoustonanda commitmenttohelpingstudentssucceed.Takeamomenttolearnmoreabouttheir studentinvolvementandacademicexperiencesbelow:

Alex,StudentOrientationDirector,Classof2027

AlexisajuniormajoringinGlobalHospitalityLeadershipattheConradN.Hilton CollegeattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromherstudies,AlexservesasaUH Ambassadorandshededicateshertimetobridgingthegapbetweenstudentsand Universitysupporters.

Kylie,StudentOrientationCoordinator,StudentExperience,Classof2026

KylieisaseniormajoringinExerciseScienceintheCollegeofLiberalArtsandSocial ScienceattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromherstudies,KylieservesastheVice PresidentoftheAmericanMedicalWomen’sAssociationwheresheprovides opportunitiesforstudentspursuingmedicalcareerpathways.

Liliana,StudentOrientationCoordinator,StudentExperience,Classof2028

LilianaisasophomoremajoringinGlobalHospitalityLeadershipattheConradN. HiltonCollegeattheUniversityofHouston.LilianaalsoservesasaHiltonAmbassador withinheracademiccollege,andsheplaystheclarinetforourdistinguisheduniversity band,TheSpiritofHouston.

Tailyn,StudentOrientationCoordinator,FamilyandSupporter,Classof2028

TailynisasophomoredoublemajoringinAccountingandMarketingintheC.T.Bauer CollegeofBusinessattheUniversityofHouston.Asanhonorsstudent,Tailynis involvedintheBauerCollegeHonorsProgramandhasalsobeenrecognizedasaTexas LeadershipScholar.

Noah,StudentOrientationCoordinator,OrientationLogistics,Classof2028

NoahisasophomoremajoringinComputerInformationSystemsintheCollegeof EngineeringattheUniversityofHouston.Asidefromhisstudies,Noahisapartofthe ArmyROTCprogramandamemberoftheSocietyofAmericanMilitaryEngineers.

What does being a the O-Team mean t Orientat

OrientationTeamReflections

Whatdoesbeingapartof theO-Teammeantoyou?

“BeingamemberoftheO-Teamissomuch morethanarole.Itrepresentsbeingaguiding figureforstudentsastheystepintoanew chapteroftheirlives.Fromsharingmy personaljourneytoexpandingourcampus communitythroughprograms,theO-Team hasallowedmetoproudlyrepresentwhatit trulymeanstobeaCoog!”

–AmyGaray,2ndyearleader

“TheO-Teamrepresentsleadingwithkindness andbeingasupportsystemfornewstudents andsupportsastheystartanewchapter.This teamhashelpedmetocreateconnections withinmycampuscommunitythatIwillbe thankfulforfarbeyondmyyearsatUH.”

–ZafirRahman,1styearleader

students in the same manner welcomed to UH!”

“Orientationismorethanjustanintroduction; itmarksthebeginningofendlesspossibilities. Notlongago,Iwasinthesameplaceas incomingstudents,andtheO-Teamhas affordedmetheopportunitytowelcome studentsinthesamemannerthatIwas welcomedtoUH!”

“BeingamemberoftheO-Teammeansbeing apositivesourceofsupporttostudentsthat aretransitioningintoUH.Notonlyhasthis timeallowedmetoserveasamentorandrole modeltoincomingstudents,butithasalso developedmyprofessionalandleadership skills.”

– Cesar Duran, 1 st year le

–CesarDuran,1styearleader

–OrianaBarriga,2ndyearleader

“BeingapartoftheO-Teammeansservingasabridgefornewstudentsastheynavigatethe exciting,yetoftenoverwhelming,transitionintouniversitylife.Itisabouthavingtheopportunity tofosterasenseofbelongingandensuringthateveryincomingstudentfeelssupportedfromthe momenttheystepontocampus.”

“Being a part of the O-Team mea exciting, yet often over whelming, to foster a sense of belonging and moment they step onto campus.”

–VineshPillai,1styearleader

OrientationTeamReflections The Honors College

Whatdoesbeingapartof theO-Teammeantoyou?

As you make your plans for the next four years, you have many options of courses, majors, and minors. The Honors College at the University of Houston offers a first-year curriculum for honors students of all majors and six interdisciplinary minors open to all UH students. As you explore your new campus home, we hope you’ll stop by for a visit — M.D. Anderson Library, second floor, up the spiral staircase.

The Honors College is a vibrant hub of engaging coursework and extracurricular activities. Students of all majors benefit from personalized advising, small, discussion-based classes, and faculty focused on teaching and mentorship. We invite you to participate in our learning community.

Throughout the year, the beautiful Honors Commons hosts a variety of events, lectures, readings, and activities that are free and open to the campus community. Students interested in exploring the broader context of their chosen major can round out their degree plans with an Honors minor, such as Medicine & Society, Energy & Sustainability, Politics & Ethics, Data & Society, Leadership Studies, or Creative Work.

–AmyGaray,2ndyearleader

The Honors College also offers opportunities designed to enhance every major and prepare students for realworld challenges. We encourage and support community engagement, learning away and abroad, and undergraduate research. For example, UH students in any course of study are encouraged to participate in funded, facultymentored research and to learn about applying to nationally competitive fellowships such as the Fulbright, Rhodes, Marshall, Goldwater, Truman, Phi Kappa Phi, and many others. Study abroad with Honors faculty, join the UH Speech and Debate team, Model United Nations, and Model Arab League. Our full menu of offerings has something for everyone. Find out more about these and other opportunities online at uh.edu/honors.

“TheO-Teamrepresentsleadingwithkindness andbeingasupportsystemfornewstuden ndsupportsastheystartanewchapter.This teamhashelpedmetocreateconnections withinmycampuscommunitythatIwillbe thankfulforfarbeyondmyyearsatUH.”

Have a great semester and Go Coogs!

–ZafirRahman,1styearleader

–OrianaBarriga,2ndyearleader

“BeingapartoftheO-Teammeansservingasabridgefornewstudentsastheynavigatethe exciting,yetoftenoverwhelming,transitionintouniversitylif tisabouthavingtheopportunity tofosterasenseofbelongingandensuringthateveryincomingstudentfeelssupportedfromthe momenttheystepontocampus.”

–VineshPillai,1styearleader

TIME

FreshmanSampleSchedule

10A.M 11A.M 12P.M 1:15P.M 2:30P.M 3:45P.M 5P.M 6P.M 6:45PM 7:30P.M

EVENT

Check-intimesareassigned.

Welcome

DayOne 9P.M Studentstransitionwithstafftotheirassignedresidencehall

Student-ledactivitiesinsmallgroups

Lunch

Collegemeetings

Informationalsessions

Resourcefair&breakoutsessions

DayTwo

7:15A.M 8:45A.M 10A.M

Student-ledactivitiesinsmallgroups

Dinner

Traditions

Eveningprogrammingbegins

EnrollmentReadySession

Advising&Enrollment

Post-Orientation/ Pre-Move-InChecklist

Orientation/ Move-In Checklist

demics & Ennrolllment

Aca Academics&Enrollment

eview your class schedul

heck for updates on your waitlisted courses (if you have ome)

Noteimportantacademicdates(startdate,add/drop deadline,withdrawaldeadline,exams)

ote important academic dates (start date add/drop

Locateyouracademicadvisorandsavetheircontactinfo

FamiliarizeyourselfwithCanvas

Housing & Roommate Prep Housing&RoommatePrep

Confirmyourhousingassignmentandmove-indate/time

Contactroommate(s)anddiscussshareditems(tv, microwave,etc.)

Reviewresidencehallpoliciesandpackingguidelines

Completeanyrequiredhousingformsoragreements

Finances & Billing Finances&Billing

Reviewtuitionbillandpaymentdeadlines

Setuppaymentplanorpaybalance

Confirmfinancialaid,scholarships,orloansare processed

Set up direct deposit for refunds

btainCougarCar

heck Cougarnet email regularl

heckCougarnetemailregularl

Download campus apps

Downloadcampusapps

UHGo

Navigate360

GrubHub

UHCampusRecreation

RegisterdevicesforcampusWi-Fi

Transportation & Travel Transportation&Travel

Arrangetransportationtocampusformove-inday

Applyforparkingpermit(ifbringingacar)

Reviewcampustransitoptionsandmaps

Savedirectionsandarrivalinstructions

Packing & Essentials Packing&Essentials

Reviewofficialpackinglistfromyourschool

Labelbelongingswithyourname

Packimportantdocuments(ID,insurancecards,social securitycard,etc.)

Preparea“first-night”bag(bedding,toiletries,chargers, lothes)

clothes)

Create a basic monthly budget

Social & Cammpus Life

Heal h & S Sa e

Refill prescriptions and transfer to a local pharmacy if needed

ack a basic first-aid ki

Review campus safety resources and emergency contacts

Reviewcampussafetyresourcesandemergency ontacts

Dining & Dail Li ing

Select or confirm meal plan

Selectorconfirmmealplan

ote dining hall hours and location

otedininghallhoursandlocation

lanforanydietaryneedsoraccommodations

lan for any dietary needs or accommodations

Joinstudentportals,groups,orsocialmediacommunities

Join student portals, groups, or social media commun

ttend WO events and DENS meet-ups

xplore clubs or organizations of interes

Setpersonalgoalsforyourfirstsemester

Set personal goals for your first semester

FinalChecks(1-2DaysBeforeMove-In)

Final Checks (1-2 Da s Before Move-In)

Recheck move-in time and instructions

Recheckmove-intimeandinstructions

Charge all devices

Chargealldevices

Confirm travel plans and weather

Say goodbyes and prepare mentally for transition

Saygoodbyesandpreparementallyfortransition

Frontiersmen:

Campustraditionsarethedrivingforceofourcampuscommunityhereatthe UniversityofHouston.Ourtraditionsrepresentinstitutionalhistory,campusculture, andschoolspirit.Fromkeycustomsandsymbolstohistoricallandmarks,UH Traditionsaretheheartbeatofstudentexperienceandsenseofbelongingoncampus!

TheCougarPawbeganin1953aftermascotShastaI,(thepresidingmascot)losta toewhenherpawwascaughtinacagedooronthewaytoagameagainst UniversityofTexas(UT).UTfansmockedtheinjurybyfoldingtheirringfinger,but UHreclaimedthegesturebackin1976witha30-0winovertheLonghorns,filling thestadiumwiththeCougarPaw&unitysincethen.

TheFrontiersmenareaspiritedgroupofstudentswhoupholdUHtraditionsat athleticevents.Dressedincowboyhats,dusters,andboots,theycarrytheTexas flagandwaveitproudlyonthefieldduringhomegames.Theirpresence symbolizestheuniversity’spioneeringspiritandpride.

RubbingthePaw:

InhonorofUH’sfirstlivecougarmascot,ShastaI,theLegendoftheCougarPaw StatuewasinstalledatGate2ofTDECUStadiumthattellsthestoryoftheCougar Handsignanditsgenesis.Cougarfansrubherextendedrightpawforgoodluck priortoenteringthestadiumongameday.Cougarfansalso“rubthepaws”ofthe cougarstatuesinfronttheRetail,Auxiliary,andDiningCenter(RAD).It’s especiallyimportantduringHomecomingandforextragoodluckonexamsas well!

CougarRedFriday: CougarHandSign:

EveryFriday,UHstudents,faculty,staff,andalumniproudlywearredonFridays toshowtheirCougarpride.Thistradition,knownas“CougarRedFriday,”unites thecampusandsymbolizesschoolspirit,loyalty,andpride.Additionally, Shasta’sCones&MoreinStudentCenterSouthgives$1icecreamscoopsif you’rewearingredonFridays.

TheCougarWalk:

Twohoursbeforekickoff,CougarfansgatherforTheCougarWalk,aspiritedpregametradition.Theheadcoachleadsthefootballteamthroughapaththatstarts atCullenBoulevard,passingtheAlumniAssociation,PartyatthePlaza,and ShastaSquare-thestudenttailgatearea-onthewaytothelockerroom.TheSpirit ofHoustonmarchingband,cheerleaders,andCougarDollslinethewalk,while fanscheerontheteamwithschoolprideandexcitement.

UHTraditions SONGSTOKNOW

TheCougarFightSong

CougarsfightfordearoldUofH ForourAlmaMatercheer FightforHoustonUniversity Forvictoryisnear. Whenthegoinggetssoroughandtough Weneverworrycausewegotthestuff. Sofight,fight,fightforredandwhite Andwewillgotovictory.

TheAlmaMater Allhailtothee, OurHoustonUniversity. Ourheartsfillwithgladness Whenwethinkofthee. We'llalwaysadorethee Dearoldvarsity. Andtothymemorycherished, Truewe'lleverbe.

C-O-U-G-A-R-S Whowetalkin''bout? We'retalkin''bouttheCougars!

GET INVOLVED AT UH

The University of Houston’s Get Involved portal is the main hub for student engagement on campus. It gives students one place to explore organizations, discover events, and find opportunities that match their interests, goals, and passions. With more than 600 student organizations available, the platform makes it easy to connect with the UH community and get involved outside the classroom. Whether students want to meet new people, gain leadership experience, build their resumes, or feel more connected on campus, the Get Involved is the best place to start.

One of the best ways students can get involved at UH is through the many University Sponsored and Affiliated Organizations. Students interested in media and entertainment can join Affiliated Organizations like Coog Radio, CoogTV, The Cougar, and Cooglife Magazine to gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, journalism, design, photography, and content creation.

UH also offers several University Sponsored Organizations that create large-scale programs, traditions, and campus experiences designed to help students fe

For students looking to build connections and create memorable experiences on campus, organizations like the Cougar Experience Board (CEB) and Student Program Board (SPB) play a major role in student life. CEB brings students exciting evening, weekend, and off-campus experiences designed to make college life unforgettable. SPB plans some of the largest and most recognized events on campus, including concerts, movie nights, and special programs that bring students together throughout the year.

There are also organizations that help students grow as leaders, support diversity and culture across campus, give back through volunteering, and celebrate cougar Spirit.

The Council for Cultural Activities (CCA) creates programs and events that highlight different cultures and help students feel included and connected. The Metropolitan Volunteer Program (MVP) gives students opportunities to volunteer throughout Houston and get involved in the community. Students looking for leadership experience can get involved with the Student Government Association (SGA), which represents the student body and helps advocate for student needs on campus. The Homecoming Board helps plan one of the biggest traditions of the year, bringing together current students, alumni, and the entire UH community to celebrate Cougar pride through events and campus traditions.

No matter your interests, there’s a place for you at UH. Explore organizations, attend events, and start building your campus experience through Get Involved.

GET INVOLVED TODAY!

uh.edu/getinvolved

@getinvolveduh

Post-Orientation/ Pre-Move-InChecklist

Academics&Enrollment

Reviewyourclassschedule

Checkforupdatesonyourwaitlistedcourses(ifyouhave some)

Noteimportantacademicdates(startdate,add/drop deadline,withdrawaldeadline,exams)

Locateyouracademicadvisorandsavetheircontactinfo

FamiliarizeyourselfwithCanvas

Housing&RoommatePrep

Confirmyourhousingassignmentandmove-indate/time

Contactroommate(s)anddiscussshareditems(tv, microwave,etc.)

ObtainCougarCard

CheckCougarnetemailregularly

Downloadcampusapps UHGo Navigate360 GrubHub

UHCampusRecreation

RegisterdevicesforcampusWi-Fi

Arrangetransportationtocampusformove-inday

Reviewresidencehallpoliciesandpackingguidelines

Completeanyrequiredhousingformsoragreements

Finances&Billing

Reviewtuitionbillandpaymentdeadlines

Setuppaymentplanorpaybalance

Confirmfinancialaid,scholarships,orloansare processed

Setupdirectdepositforrefunds

Createabasicmonthlybudget

Applyforparkingpermit(ifbringingacar)

Reviewcampustransitoptionsandmaps

Savedirectionsandarrivalinstructions

Reviewofficialpackinglistfromyourschool

Labelbelongingswithyourname

Packimportantdocuments(ID,insurancecards,social securitycard,etc.)

Preparea“first-night”bag(bedding,toiletries,chargers, clothes)

Health&Safety

Refillprescriptionsandtransfertoalocalpharmacyif needed

Packabasicfirst-aidkit

Reviewcampussafetyresourcesandemergency contacts

Selectorconfirmmealplan

Notedininghallhoursandlocations

Planforanydietaryneedsoraccommodations

Joinstudentportals,groups,orsocialmediacommunities

AttendWOWeventsandDENSmeet-ups

Exploreclubsororganizationsofinterest

Setpersonalgoalsforyourfirstsemester

Recheckmove-intimeandinstructions

Chargealldevices

Confirmtravelplansandweather

Saygoodbyesandpreparementallyfortransition

Campus traditions are University of Houston. O and school spirit. From Traditions are the heartb

ougar Hand Sign:

The Cougar Paw began in 1953 after mascot Shasta I, (the presiding masc toe when her paw was caught in a cage door on the way to a game niversity of Texas (UT) UT fans mocked the injury by folding their ring fi H reclaimed the gesture back in 1976 with a 30-0 win over the Longhor h t di ith th C P & it i th

Frontiersmen:

RubbingthePaw:

CougarRedFriday: CougarHandSign:

TheCougarWalk:

UHTraditions SONGSTOKNOW

SONGSTOKNOW

The Cougar Fight Song

Cougars fight for dear old U of H For our Alma Mater cheer Fight for Houston University For victor y is near. When the going gets so rough and tough We never worr y cause we got the stuff. So fight, fight, fight for red and white And we will go to victor y.

TheCougarFightSong CougarsfightfordearoldUofH ForourAlmaMatercheer. FightforHoustonUniversity Forvictoryisnear. Whenthegoinggetssoroughandtough Weneverworrycausewegotthestuff. Sofight,fight,fightforredandwhite Andwewillgotovictory.

TheAlmaMater Allhailtothee, OurHoustonUniversity. Ourheartsfillwithgladness Whenwethinkofthee. We'llalwaysadorethee Dearoldvarsity. Andtothymemorycherished, Truewe'lleverbe.

The Alma Mater All hail to thee, Our Houston University. Our hearts fill with gladness When we think of thee. We'll always adore thee Dear old varsity And to thy memor y cherished, True we'll ever be

The Womp Womp

Who we talkin' 'bout? We're talkin' 'bout the Cougars!

TheWompWomp C-O-U-G-A-R-S Whowetalkin''bout? We'retalkin''bouttheCougars!

The call-and-Response cha Coogs’ House!” originated former UH cheerleader P dominant football season on a loud symbol of Cougar Whose House? Co

WhoseHouse?Coogs’House!

Thecall-and-Responsechant“WhoseHouse? Coogs’House!”originatedin1988,createdby formerUHcheerleaderPaulPettitduringa dominantfootballseasonontheroad.Today,it’s aloudsymbolofCougarprideandspiritat TDECUStadiumandotherUHsportingevents. TheFrontiersmenareaspiritedgroupof studentswhoupholdUHtraditionsatathletic events.Dressedincowboyhats,dusters,and boots,theycarrytheTexasflagandwaveit proudlyonthefieldduringhome games.Their presencesymbolizestheuniversity’spioneering spiritandpride.

ClassRing:

UH’sclassringtraditionisameaningfulriteof passage.Eachyear,studentsreceivetheirrings duringtheformalRingCeremonyattheFertitta Center.Oneofthemostuniquepartsofthis traditionisthat,beforetheceremony,therings spendthenightintheenclosureofShastaVI, UH’slivemascot,atHoustonZoo.Current studentsweartheirringsfacinginward to symbolizetheirconnectiontotheuniversity, whilealumniweartheirringsoutwardto representtheirtransitionintotheworldasproud UHgraduates.

the enclosure of Shasta VI, at Houston Zoo. Current eir rings facing inward onnection to the university, ar their rings outward to sition into the world as proud

1/2AD

Campus Recreation Department of

Outside

Ways to get Involved

Photo by Raphael Fernandez

Looking

CENTER FOR STUDENT INVOLVEMENT

MetropolitanVolunteerProgram(MVP)

Cougar Experience Board (CEB)

Homecoming

Global Programs at UH your ticket to the world

LEARNING ABROAD

Programs abroad for all majors in 80+ countries

Study, internship, service, or research program options

Scholarships & financial aid support available

GLOBAL CITIZENS CREDENTIAL

GO GLOBAL ON CAMPUS

FP AD

Participate in the many ways to be one of our #GlobalCoogs!

Live on campus in Global House Language and global courses International internships & fellowships Peace Corps Prep program Global events & student organizations

PASSPORT FOR COOGS

Apply for a U.S. passport right here on the UH campus We’re here to help!

Open to the UH community & general public

uh.edu/global

CougarDENS:BuildingCommunity,Confidence, andaStrongStartatUH

Cougar DENS: Building Community, Confiden and a Strong Start at U y H

For many students, the first few weeks of college feel like stepping into the unknown. New faces, new expectations, and a campus full of opportunities exciting, yet over whelming. At the University of Houston, one program is desi ned to turn that uncertaint into

g y confidence: Cougar DENS.

Formanystudents,thefirstfewweeksof collegefeellikesteppingintothe unknown.Newfaces,newexpectations, andacampusfullofopportunities— exciting,yetoverwhelming.Atthe UniversityofHouston,oneprogramis designedtoturnthatuncertaintyinto confidence:CougarDENS.

ShortforDiscover,Empower,Navigate, Succeed,CougarDENSisatransition programforfirst-yearandtransfer students.Fromthemomentstudents arriveoncampus,DENSprovidesabuiltinnetworkofpeers,mentors,and resourcessonostudenthastonavigate thetransitionalone.It’sacommunity.A supportsystem.Aplacewherequestions arewelcomed,connectionsarebuilt, andgrowthbegins.

Short for Discover, Empower, Navigate, Succeed, Cougar DENS is a transition program for first-year and transfer students. From the moment students arrive on campus, DENS provides a builtin network of peers, mentors, and resources so no student has to navigate the transition alone. It’s a community. A support system. A place where questions are welcomed, connections are built, and growth begins.

ACommunityDesignedforTransition

A Community Designed for Transition

At its conne cohor engag

transi

The program supports both fi students new to college and t students settling into a d institution, who are looking for g on their academic path. Whil needs may diff f er, r both groups from the same foundational of bel to st conve share build exten

rst-year ransfer iff f erent uidance

e their benefit goal:

creating a smooth, supported transition into Coog Life.

Theprogramsupportsbothfirst-year studentsnewtocollegeandtransfer studentssettlingintoadifferent institution,whoarelookingforguidance ontheiracademicpath.Whiletheir needsmaydiffer,bothgroupsbenefit fromthesamefoundationalgoal: creatingasmooth,supportedtransition intoCoogLife.

GuidedbytheDENSFramework

Guided by the DENS Framework

Cougar DENS distinguishes itself through its intentional structure. The program is organized around four key pillars Discover, Empower, Navigate, and Succeed each representing different stages in the student transition

CougarDENSdistinguishesitself throughitsintentionalstructure.The programisorganizedaroundfourkey pillars—Discover,Empower,Navigate, andSucceed—eachrepresenting differentstagesinthestudenttransition journey.

Students begin by exploring campus resources, traditions, and opportunities

Atitscore,CougarDENSisabout connection.Studentsareplacedin cohort-basedcommunitieswherethey engagewithpeersfacingsimilar transitions.Thesecohortsfosterasense ofbelongingearlyon—somethingcritical tostudentsuccess.Throughpeer-led conversations,campusevents,and sharedexperiences,studentsbeginto buildmeaningfulrelationshipsthat extendwellbeyondtheirfirstsemester.

core, Cougar DENS is about ction. Students are placed in t-based communities where they e with peers facing similar available to them. From there, they are encouraged to take ownership by actively engaging with those resources and building confidence in their bili i h ll i d

onging early on something critical udent success. Through peer-led rsations, campus events, and d experiences, students begin to meaningful relationships that d well beyond their first semester.

Studentsbeginbyexploringcampus resources,traditions,andopportunities availabletothem.Fromthere,theyare encouragedtotakeownershipby activelyengagingwiththoseresources andbuildingconfidenceintheir abilities.Aschallengesarise,students learntonavigateacademicand personalexperienceswithguidance frompeersandstaff.Ultimately,they reachapointwheretheycansucceed— thrivingacademically,socially,and personally.

learn to navigate academic and personal experiences with guidance from peers and staff. Ultimately, they reach a point where they can succeed thriving academically, socially, and personally. tions. These cohorts foster a sense a t es. A s c a enges ar se, stu ents

That Makes the

Peer Support That Makes the Difference

A key aspect of Cougar DENS is its focus on peer leadership DENS Leaders are essential in supporting new students during their first year by offering mentorship, sharing personal ex eriences and rovidin ractical ti s

AkeyaspectofCougarDENSisitsfocus onpeerleadership.DENSLeadersare essentialinsupportingnewstudents duringtheirfirstyearbyoffering mentorship,sharingpersonal experiences,andprovidingpracticaltips ontopicssuchascourseworkandcampus involvement.Throughmonthlyprograms, weeklyengagement,individualcoaching, andcasualcheck-ins,theseleaderskeep studentsengagedandconnected.They serveasfriendly,relatableguideswho understandthechallengesofthe transitionfirsthand.

To me, it’s more than just a program way to help students feel supporte set up for success beyond their fir days on campus, and I can’t wait fo build more momentum.”

- Liliana

- Liliana Arevalo, DENS Leader, Class of 2028

Creating a Sense of Belonging

p , p g p p on topics such as coursework and campus involvement Through monthly programs, weekly engagement, individual coaching, and casual check-ins, these leaders keep students engaged and connected. They ser ve as friendly, relatable guides who understand the challenges of the transition firsthand ; it’s a d and st few r it to ader,

Tome,it’smorethanjustaprogram;it’sa waytohelpstudentsfeelsupportedand setupforsuccessbeyondtheirfirstfew daysoncampus,andIcan’twaitforitto buildmoremomentum.”

“Ser ving as a Cougar DENS mentor at the University of Houston has been such a meaningful experience. It’s a great opportunity for students to stay connected beyond orientation and continue building community as they tran

“ServingasaCougarDENSmentoratthe UniversityofHoustonhasbeensucha meaningfulexperience.It’sagreat opportunityforstudentstostay connectedbeyondorientationand continuebuildingcommunityasthey transitionintocollege.

Bein reso

CougarDENSrecognizesthateach student’sjourneyisunique.Tosupport diverseexperiences,theprogramincludes subgroupstailoredtospecific populations,includingfirst-generation students,out-of-statestudents,and veterans.Thesesubgroupsoffertargeted supportwhilereinforcingabroadersense ofinclusionacrosstheUHcommunity.

Cougar DENS recognizes that each student’s journey is unique. To support diverse experiences, the program includes subgroups tailored to specific populations, including first-generation students, out-of-state students, and veterans. These subgroups offer targeted support while reinforcing a broader sense of inclusion across the UH community

rew whe que find nav sition into college g able to guide students, share urces, and support them as they

Beingabletoguidestudents,share resources,andsupportthemasthey navigatecampusiswhatmakesit rewarding.CougarDENScreatesaspace wherestudentsfeelcomfortableasking questions,makingconnections,and findingtheirplaceatUH.

In addition to in-person engagement, students can connect through virtual communities, group chats, and campuswide events. Whether attending a

igate campus is what makes it resource-focused workshop, participating

arding. Cougar DENS creates a space re students feel comfortable asking stions, making connections, and ing their place at UH

in a campus tradition, or simply asking questions in a group chat, students are consistently encouraged to engage, explore, and connect

Inadditiontoin-personengagement, studentscanconnectthroughvirtual communities,groupchats,andcampuswideevents.Whetherattendinga resource-focusedworkshop,participating inacampustradition,orsimplyasking questionsinagroupchat,studentsare consistentlyencouragedtoengage, explore,andconnect.

The result is more than participation belonging. Students are not just atte UH; they are becoming part of the

it’s ndin

Theresultismorethanparticipation—it’s belonging.Studentsarenotjustattending UH;theyarebecomingpartoftheUH community.

WhatStudentsCanExpect

What Students Can Expect

U S can unity,

StudentswhoparticipateinCougarDENScan expectanexperiencerootedincommunity, growth,andsupport.Throughcollaborative activitiesandmeaningfulconversations,they developstrongpeerconnectionsanda deepersenseofinstitutionalpride.The programalsoprovidesasafe,welcoming spacewherestudentsfeelcomfortableasking questions,expressingconcerns,andseeking guidancethroughouttheirtransition.

Eventssuchascommunity-buildingactivities, resourceexplorationinitiatives,andlargescaleeventshelpreinforceconnectionsand sharedidentityamongparticipants.

Students who participate in Cougar DEN expect an experience rooted in comm rowth, and support. Through collaborative personal growth, and offering support to our first-year students as they face challenges at the University of Houston.”

- Alex

“Supporting Cougar DENS to me means helping build a community, encouraging Events such as community-building activities, resource exploration initiatives, and large scale events help reinforce connections an shared identity among participants. ctivities and meaningful conversations, they evelop strong peer connections and a eeper sense of institutional pride. The rogram also provides a safe, welcoming pace where students feel comfortable asking uestions, expressing concerns, and seeking uidance throughout their transition.

“SupportingCougarDENStomemeans helpingbuildacommunity,encouraging personalgrowth,andofferingsupporttoour first-yearstudentsastheyfacechallengesat theUniversityofHouston.”

Inzar, DENS Leader, Class of

-AlexInzar,DENSLeader,Classof 2027

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MoreThanaProgram—ACycleofGrowth

More Than a Program—A Cycle of Growth

MoreThanaProgram—ACycleofGrowth

What makes Cougar DENS truly impactful is its long-term vision. The program is not just about helping students adjust it’s about empowering them to become leaders. A s students gain confidence and experience,

they are encouraged to give back by mentoring future Coogs and continuing the cycle of support.

WhatmakesCougarDENStrulyimpactfulis itslong-termvision.Theprogramisnotjust abouthelpingstudentsadjust—it’sabout empoweringthemtobecomeleaders.As studentsgainconfidenceandexperience, theyareencouragedtogivebackby mentoringfutureCoogsandcontinuingthe cycleofsupport.

The ove Hou alo sup

StartingStrong,Together

Starting Strong , Together

StartingStrong,Together

transition to college can feel r whelming, but at the University of ston, students are never expected to do it ne. Cougar DENS provides the structure, port, and sense of community students need to start strong and stay connected.

Thetransitiontocollegecanfeel overwhelming,butattheUniversityof Houston,studentsareneverexpectedtodoit alone.CougarDENSprovidesthestructure, support,andsenseofcommunitystudents needtostartstrongandstayconnected.

In this way, Cougar DENS becomes more than a first-year initiative. It becomes a foundational experience that shapes how students engage with the university, their peers, and their own success.

Inthisway,CougarDENSbecomesmorethan afirst-yearinitiative.Itbecomesa foundationalexperiencethatshapeshow studentsengagewiththeuniversity,their peers,andtheirownsuccess.

Byfosteringrelationships,encouraging engagement,andguidingstudentsthrough eachstageoftheirjourney,CougarDENS ensureseverynewCooghastheopportunity notonlytoadjust—buttothrive.

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By fostering relationships, encouraging engagement, and guiding students through each stage of their journey, Cougar DENS ensures ever y new Coog has the opportunity not only to adjust but to thrive. uh.edu/af-auxiliary-services/ campus-store/ctap/

Celebrate Spiritual Diversity CelebrateSpiritualDiversity

14campusministryorganizations

58faith-basedstudentorgs.

7worshipserviceseveryweek

Privateprayerroomsavailable

Pastoralcare,counseling,and

The A.D. Bruce Religion Center is the focal point for many on-campus religious and spiritual activities. It is a bustling center of many ongoing educational programs and activities focusing on religious issues with an emphasis on Interfaith Dialogue. The A.D. Bruce Religion Center offers a place for both quiet meditation and spiritual growth.

TheA.D.BruceReligionCenteristhefocalpointformanyon-campusreligiousandspiritual activities.Itisabustlingcenterofmanyongoingeducationalprogramsandactivities focusingonreligiousissueswithanemphasisonInterfaithDialogue.TheA.D.Bruce ReligionCenteroffersaplaceforbothquietmeditationandspiritualgrowth.

SIGNATUREEVENTS:

PAWSTO CAREER PATHWAYS

HeyCoogs!KickoffyourUHexperience bypaintingtheCoogsymbolandlearning howtosetgoalsforastrongstart.

27August,2026 12:00PM-3:00PM

StudentServiceCenter1

STRENGTHS THROUGH MY TOP 5

Feeling stuck has been one of the hardest obstacles I’ve had to overcome. In my case, this has been a frequent, endless cycle. Did I choose the correct major and path for my future career? Are my study methods effective enough to pass my exams? What are some traits that help identify who I am? All of these questions reflect current events in life that didn’t have a clear answer until very recently. Through an established online assessment provided by the University of Houston at uh.edu/strengths, CliftonStrengths by Gallup has helped me identify my strengths and understand how I apply them in my day-to-day life.

People with strong Relator talent enjoy developing deep, meaningful relationships and tend to value authenticity, trust, and close connection over broad social networking. RELATOR

What resonated most was the way these talents are categorized. Remarkably, my top five strengths all fell under “Relationship Building” and “Influencing” domains. Reading the detailed report by Gallup helped me understand the “why” behind the decisions I make. It explained why I’m drawn to team-based environments, attributes often found in the world of Accounting. This similar area also helped clarify my passion for being a member of the Spirit of Houston, which is the largest student organization on campus. Grouped with band, cheer, spirit, and mascots, this core helps represent the university on both academic and athletic fronts. Leaning into my strengths hasn’t just clarified my major; it has helped me truly prosper throughout my college career.

EMPATHY

Beyond the broad categories, Gallup tailors the results with surprising precision, providing a detailed background for each individual theme. My personal chart mapped out how each of my top five strengths interacts with the others, with impressive accuracy. Thanks to some extra resources provided through the university’s Strengths website, such as personalized coaching and workshops, CliftonStrengths has allowed me to understand how I approach everything from life events to simple

conversations. One of the most intuitive features provided was the personalized scenarios for each specific attribute. Reviewing these results has been a true eye-opener, allowing a clearer mirror into my personality that I haven’t seen before.

The cycle of questioning your major, your habits, and your future is a familiar story for many students, but the answers rarely come from looking outward. It’s not an easy feat, but answers are almost always going to be internal. My cycle of being stuck and constantly questioning my future didn’t end because the challenges went away; it ended because I understood what I did best and applied it accordingly. Much like my time in the Spirit of Houston, where every member must contribute their part for the ensemble to succeed, I now recognize my

People with strong Achiever talent possess a powerful internal drive to accomplish goals, stay productive, and make steady progress every day.heading ACHIEVER

top five strengths as my way to contribute to society. With this clearer viewpoint, I can provide energy and advocate for the unique perspective my strengths allow me to bring to the table.

Written by Sean Olivar

‘28

People with strong Empathy talent naturally sense and understand the feelings of others. They are emotionally attuned and often able to “step into someone else’s shoes” to understand what others may be experiencing.