Otter Days welcomes students to campus with fun, warmth and support

By Caitlin Fillmore

Ten action-packed Otter Days begin on the first move-in day of Wednesday, Aug. 20, offering dozens of opportunities for new and returning students to connect with campus resources and the community.

A diverse schedule of events runs from  Aug. 20 through Saturday, Aug. 30. This year, several signature events return for Otter Days, including the popular Monte Royale Casino Night on Friday, Aug. 29 and Karaoke with the Clubs on Tuesday, Aug. 26. 

New this year is the addition of the Sneaker Ball, a chance to dress up and dance with new friends during the Otter Cross Cultural Center’s annual Block Party on Wednesday, August 27. Off campus, students can experience life on the Central Coast with a Sunday morning plunge in the Pacific Ocean on Aug. 24.

Director of New Student Programs, Kaci Turpin, explained that Otter Days are thoughtfully developed to provide students with abundant ways to become a part of the CSUMB community.

“Transitioning to college, whether you're a first-year student or a transfer, can be overwhelming,” Turpin said. “We want to make that transition smoother by offering multiple opportunities to engage.”

New students receive their ceremonial welcome to the CSUMB academic community at New Student Convocation, held Friday, Aug. 22 at CSUMB Stadium. This event is required for new and transfer students.

“Convocation includes formal traditions like the pinning ceremony, words of encouragement from university leaders, and a chance to gather with your incoming class for a photo,” Turpin said. “It’s a moment of pride and unity as well as a shared experience that sets the tone for the rest of your time here.”

Students are encouraged to register in advance for Otter Days events using the MyRaft platform and will check in at each event with their student ID.

Turpin described the atmosphere of Otter Days as “vibrant, welcoming, and fun.”

“There’s an undeniable energy as everyone settles into their new routines, explores campus life, and begins to create memories that will shape their college experience,” Turpin said. “Above all, we want students to feel connected to each other and to the broader CSUMB community.”