Otter Days 2025
August 20 through August 31
Welcome Home Otters! We are happy you are here and we hope you are ready to kick off your college experience with Otter Days. Whether you are a new or returning otter, there are tons of events and activities to connect, build community, and make new friends.
Otter Days begins at move-in and continues through August 31. See the campus-hosted events below, and find student-hosted events on MyRaft - the portal for all our on campus departments and more than 100 clubs and organizations.
Events
Move-in Day 1
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Various
Audience: Residential StudentsMain Quad students joining the CSUMB on-campus community move into their new home on this day. Make sure to schedule an appointment time and get settled in quickly because the fun starts NOW.
Let's Celebrate Nuestra Cultura "Our Culture"
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: El Centro
Audience: Family and SupportersIf you'd like to know how to support your student as you prepare to leave them in a new place, or you want to connect with other supporters so you can create a community, come celebrate with staff who can share tips on how to help your student be successful.
Si desea saber cómo apoyar a su estudiante mientras se prepara para dejarlo en un nuevo lugar o desea conectarse con otros partidarios para tener su propia comunidad, ven a celebrar donde el personal podrá ofrecerle consejos sobre cómo ayudar a su estudiante tener exito.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953809
RLC-led Community Meetings (3 sessions)
Time: Varies (see below)
Location: World Theater
Audience: Residential StudentsAll on-campus residents are required to come to your first community meeting of the year! Come learn more about living on campus, from community expectations to sharing how we can best support you.
6-6:30 (Cypress, Asilomar, Willett)
6:45-7:15 A2 (Manzanita, Yarrow, Avocet)
7:30 - 8pm A3 (Tortuga and Sanderling)Parent and Family Reception
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: University Center Auditorium
Audience: Family and SupportersWelcome parents, families, and supporters of Otters! This reception on Move In Day is for you to come and be welcomed as the essential part of your student's journey that you are. Come receive some refreshments, hear from CSUMB's President, and remember to say goodbye to your otter. We will be taking students to community meetings and you'll have the chance to connect with other families. We look forward to seeing you there! Questions? Email orientation@csumb.edu.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953366
Playfair
Time: 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: Otter Sports Center
Audience: New StudentsIt's entertainment! It's fun! It’s the perfect way to make new campus friendships! Playfair is a team-building experience that increases retention of your new student class.
Move-in Day 2
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Various Locations
Audience: Residential StudentsStudents living in North Quad, Promontory, and East Campus come to campus on this day to get a chance to prepare for next week's start of classes! There will be a variety of events to look forward to, so make the most out of your entire license period starting TODAY.
Orientation
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: World Theater
Audience: International StudentsMake up orientation for FTF, TRN and International Students
Community Meetings
Time: 7 to 8 p.m.
Location: Various Locations
Audience: Residential StudentsLive in North Quad, Promontory, or East Campus Residents are encouraged to join Student Housing and Residential Life staff to learn more about community expectations, how we can best support you, and more valuable information. Start building relationships with other residents and your RA today!
College Mixers
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Location: Along Divarty Street
Audience: StudentsEvery major on campus is a part of one of our 5 colleges at CSUMB. Come meet your dean, faculty, and fellow students within your college. You will have the opportunity to network, learn more about events, services and traditions your college hosts, and we’ll play games to raffle off prizes.
Check-in will begin at 9:15 a.m. outside of the Library and you will receive your class shirt.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953385
New Student Convocation
Time: 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: CSUMB Stadium
Audience: New StudentsNew Student Convocation serves as a required formal welcome to CSUMB and celebrates our new otters. At this event our new otters will get a chance to hear from administrators including the University President, Vice President for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs, the Provost, and CSUMB faculty, staff, and students. This CSUMB tradition marks the start of a new academic year and commemorates the beginning of your academic journey.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953386
Campus Cookout
Time: 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Main Quad
Audience: StudentsThe Campus Cookout (aka Welcome BBQ) is an opportunity to gather as a campus community to welcome in the new academic year! A complimentary lunch is served with a myriad of activities and entertainment woven in.
Matcha Talkin' About
Time: 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: El Centro
Audience: StudentsCome get creative and de-stress with a make your own matcha tea while also sculpting an object out of modeling clay to commemorate your start at CSUMB.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954517
Parenting-Student Mixer
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Student Center, West Lounge
Audience: Students & Supporters🌟 Calling All Student Parents! 🌟
You’re Invited to the Parenting Student Mixer – A Celebration for You & Your Family!
Join Care and Basic Needs and the Family Friendly Student Organization for a joyful, family-focused event designed just for parenting students like YOU!
🎉 What to Expect:
👶 Kid-Approved Food!
🎈 Fun Activities for kids of all ages – Games, crafts, and more!
💬 Connect with Other Student Parents – Build your village.
💡 Discover Helpful Resources – On-campus and community support to make life easier.
Whether you’re looking to make friends, share your journey, or just enjoy a night out with your family—this mixer is for YOU!https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953816
Late Night with OSU
Time: 8:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Location: OSU Ballroom
Audience: StudentsGet ready for an epic night of free fun and making new friends before classes kick off. Join us for an unforgettable Late Night with OSU, where all three floors come alive with excitement! Explore the incredible features of the Otter Student Union building, indulge in free food, groove to awesome music, and engage in interactive events that will keep you entertained.
Class Finding Tours
Time: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: OSU Main Quad Plaza
Audience: StudentsAre you new to campus and need to know where your classes will be? Meet an Orientation Leader at their chosen location to go on a class finding tour to make sure you know where you need to go when you start classes. Any student who has not been to campus before is welcome to attend, not just new students for Fall 2025!
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953387
RecFest
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Student Recreation Field
Audience: StudentsYou Otter Play.. Come join the Recreation team in celebrating our annual #RecFest highlighting health, wellness and recreation opportunities for CSUMB students on and off campus. This event will host our Sports Clubs, Intramural Sports, Outdoor Recreation, and Otter Cycle Center. This an awesome chance to make some new connections with the CSUMB community and find ways to recreate, have fun, and live healthy.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953793
Partido MBFC
Time: 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm
Location: In Front of Dining Commons
Audience: StudentsNot many students around the country can say they have a professional soccer team playing in their backyard, but WE can!!! If you love the game and want to be around other fútbol fans, then meet up in front of the Dining Commons to walk over to watch our Monterey Bay FC team play during Back to School.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954515
Welcome Back Bingo
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: OSU Ballroom
Audience: StudentsJoin Associated Students and New Student Programs for our annual Back to School Bingo night. Learn more about campus resources and win prizes!
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953389
The Plunge
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Location: The Beach
Audience: StudentsIt's time to Plunge into your CSUMB experience by jumping into the beautiful pacific ocean the day before classes start. Enjoy s'mores. Bring a friend and jump in so you can say you took part in a tradition here at CSUMB. Transportation provided from lot 71.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953822
La Exploración
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Location: Monterey Transit Station
Audience: StudentsJoin El Centro staff and dry off from The Plunge by exploring your new home - Monterey Bay! We will do a walking tour of some of the best panaderias, restaurantes, and other good to know places in town, so you can start off the new semester right! We will take the MST bus back to campus, so make sure to have your OtterID.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954516
Residential Welcome Event Ice Cream Social
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: In Front of Student Housing Office
Audience: StudentsEnjoy some sweet treats as you get to know your fellow Otters! Dairy and dairy free options available. To ensure you have the best chance of getting a shirt, we recommend arriving early, as quantities are limited and shirts will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953715
Battle of the Bay - Men's and Women's Soccer Games
Time: 2:00 p.m. & 4:00 p.m.
Location: Cardinale Stadium
Audience: AllCheer on our Men's and Women's Soccer teams as they battle against our bay rival, UC Santa Cruz. We plan to pack the stands and the first 100 students will receive rally towels.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953808
Dive-in Movie Night
Time: 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: OSU Inter-Garrison Plaza
Audience: AllDitch the swimsuits, grab your coziest blankets and dive into a night of inflatable pool lounging, snacks, and watching the LILO AND STITCH movie under the stars! We’re turning the space into a giant "dry pool" with comfy floaties, so you can chill like an otter on a lazy river... just without the wet hair. Sea you there!
Commuter Donut and Dash
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (or when supplies run out)
Location: Lot 71
Audience: StudentsStart your semester off right with a quick treat before heading to class! Join us for Donuts & Dash, a back-to-school welcome event where you can grab a free donut and some hot coffee to fuel your morning.
This event is especially for our commuter students who are on the go, but all students are welcome! Stop by Lot 71 between 8:00 and 10:00 AM—just dash in, grab your goodies, and dash off to class.https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954405
Momento para Cafecito
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: El Centro
Audience: StudentsCome learn what your Latiné staff and faculty do on campus. All are welcome to take a break and drink some coffee (or tea or hot chocolate) with us! Comunidad nourishes el alma and we want you to feel ready to take on the new year.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954513
Pet Your Stress Away
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: In Front of Student Housing Office
Audience: StudentsGot first day jitters? Need some time to collect your thoughts and mentally prepare for the rest of the week? Stop on by and pet some farm animals!
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953746
Momento para Cafecito
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: El Centro
Audience: StudentsWhether you've visited El Centro before or it's your first time, all are welcome to take a break and drink some coffee (or tea or hot chocolate) with us! Comunidad nourishes el alma and we want you to feel ready to take on the new year.
Commuter Donut and Dash
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (or supplies run out)
Location: Lot 71
Audience: StudentsStart your semester off right with a quick treat before heading to class! Join us for Donuts & Dash, a back-to-school welcome event where you can grab a free donut and some hot coffee to fuel your morning.
This event is especially for our commuter students who are on the go, but all students are welcome! Stop by Lot 71 between 8:00 and 10:00 AM—just dash in, grab your goodies, and dash off to class.https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954493
You Belong Here - Love, Undocu-Success Center
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Bldg 47, Room 120
Audience: StudentsThis event is a warm and welcoming space to connect with peers, learn about resources and support systems, and celebrate the strength and resilience of our undocumented and mixed-status student community. Open to undocumented students, DACA recipients, those from mixed-status families, and allies who want to support and build an inclusive campus culture.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954521
Overcome the Wall
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: Challenge Course
Audience: StudentsYou have been challenged to climb up and over Recreation's 15 ft wall! Use wits and strategy to work with your fellow otters to conquer it.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953865
hOtter Wing Challenge
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Building 12 Lounge
Audience: StudentsCan you handle the heat?! Come on down and share try some hot wings with the Alumni Association. And if you aren't a fan of anything spicy, you can always cheer on your friends. Additional food & drinks will be available - and some milk to cool off if needed!
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953866
Karaoke with the Clubs
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: OSU Steps
Audience: StudentsBring your singing voice and your dancing shoes or neither and be ready to have a good laugh and some fun. Karaoke hosted by our Inter-Club Council. There will be snacks, prizes, and a good time to be had by all.
Breakfast with the Dean
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Location: Dining Commons
Audience: StudentsDr. Rodriguez will meet with 12 students in the DC as an introduction to him and the Dean of Students Office
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953811
Veterans Resource Center Welcome Open House
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Veterans Resource Center
Audience: StudentsStudent, staff and faculty Veterans and Military Connected students are invited to stop by the Veterans Resource Center for an Open House event to kick off the Fall 2025 semester. Drop in for a snack, pick up some SWAG and meet the Student Veteran Services Staff and other Veterans.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954400
Solidarity Block Party
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Otter Student Union Inter-Garrison Plaza
Audience: StudentsThe Otter Cross Cultural Center will host its annual OC3 Block Party on Wednesday, August 27th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The OC3 Block Party is designed to welcome and celebrate the start of the academic year by bringing University students, staff, faculty, and community partner organizations together. The event includes local artists and performances that welcome and celebrate the diversity of our campus and community.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953791
Plant Party with Health & Wellness Services
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Building 12 Quad
Audience: StudentsMeet Health & Wellness Services staff to learn more about support services at CSUMB. Each participant will be able to plant and take home a succulent to brighten up their living space.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953682
Budgeting Your Semester
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Building 12 Lounge/Quad
Audience: StudentsStressed about stretching your cash from move-in to finals? Join us for a no-judgment zone where you’ll learn to:
✔️ Crush your spending habits (RIP impulse Uber Eats)
✔️ Spot hidden savings (Textbooks? Meal plans? We’ve got hacks.)
✔️ Build a realistic budget (So you can actually afford that weekend coffee).https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953390
Sneaker Ball - After Party
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: Otter Student Union Ballroom
Audience: StudentsThe Affinity Centers are thrilled to announce the second part of the Affinity Center Block Party: the Sneaker Ball After Party! We invite you to join us for an unforgettable evening filled with entertainment, community spirit, and celebration.
This lively event will feature a lineup of talented musical performances, DJs, and drag performers. Whether you’re rocking your favorite sneakers or just looking to enjoy the vibrant energy of our community, the Sneaker Ball After Party is the perfect way to connect and celebrate together.La Entrada Otter Thursday
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: OSU Plaza
Audience: StudentsA warm welcome (entrada) to your CSUMB familia and community. Join for a fun time with food, musica, and lawn games! Proudly sponsored by the President's Office.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1954520
Pop in for Popsicles
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Library 2nd floor, suite 2125
Audience: StudentsPop by the CLC on the 2nd floor of the library for a free popsicle and a chance to get to know some tutors and CLC staff. We'll be screening a movie, playing games, and setting people up with appointments as needed.
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953812
Take Flight This Semester! - Kite Decorating Workshop
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Building 12 Quad
Audience: StudentsUnleash your creativity at our Design Your Own Kite workshop! Decorate a pre-assembled kite with markers, paints, stickers, and more to make it uniquely yours. No crafting experience needed—just bring your imagination!
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1955021
Bike Repair 101: Tire and Tube Basics
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Otter Cycle Center
Audience: StudentsJoin us at Recreation's Otter Cycle Center and learn the basics of bike tires and tubes. The Otter Cycle Center mechanics will be here to
We will go over tire and tube care:
- Tire pressure
- Valve types
- Tread types
- Tube type and sizing
- How to change a tire and tube
- How to pump up your tireshttps://cglink.me/2hz/r1953853
Esports Mario Kart Tournament
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: OSU Ballroom
Audience: StudentsJoin us for an exhilarating Mario Kart tournament featuring classic tracks and multiplayer mayhem. Participate or cheer on your friends and witness the crowning of the Mario Kart Champion during the trophy presentation. Don't miss the chance to kick off the semester with high-speed fun and friendly competition!
https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953819
Free Mountain Bike Rides
Time: 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Otter Cycle Center
Audience: StudentsJoin Recreation for our free Friday Mountain Bike Rides. You will get a free bike rental, and a helmet.
We lead "No Drop Rides," which means that you will never be left behind, EVER.
We will take you on a ride from the Otter Cycle Center to the Fort Ord National Monument only 1.5 miles away.
With over 82 miles of trails, each ride will be different and tailored to the group's ability.https://cglink.me/2hz/r1953830
Monte Royale: Casino Night
Time: 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: OSU Ballroom
Audience: StudentsCome test your luck and see if you can beat the house at our very own Monte Royale Casino. Great prizes and food (while supplies last).
Otter Media Open House
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Divarty Quad
Audience: StudentsJoin Otter Media for Live Music entertainment on Divarty Quad.
For a complete list of events, log-in to MyRaft and view our full list of Otter Days Events. Be sure to RSVP to secure your spot. For any questions or accommodations, please contact the First Year Experience Office prior to the event.