Aug. 15, 2025

Bulldog-to-Bulldog program aims to bring current and new Ferris State students together

Bulldog-to-Bulldog program helps bring students together — Ferris State's Office of Student Life and Student Government Association are collaborating to introduce a new Bulldog-to-Bulldog program designed to help new students learn from returning students.

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. —

Beginning a new academic year focused on student success is a given, but Ferris State University’s new Bulldog-to-Bulldog program has an added twist with current students and new students supporting each other.

A primary Bulldog-to-Bulldog goal is building a stronger Ferris State community as current student share their experiences and wisdom with new students.

“Whether students are curious about campus life, ready to make new friends, or just excited for free fun, the Bulldog-to-Bulldog program is great for that,” said Kavaris Sims, associate director of Student Life. “We can’t wait to welcome our students home.”

The kickoff event is set for Saturday, Aug. 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. in Williams Auditorium. In addition to providing an opportunity for new students to engage with current ones, the event will also feature music, entertainment and prizes as Ferris State begins the 2025-26 academic year.

This effort is a collaboration between the Office of Student Life and the Student Government Association.

“Student Life and Student Government are rolling out the crimson and gold carpet for students to join us for Bulldog-to-Bulldog, the ultimate welcome event for first-year students,” Sims said. “Students will vibe to great music, enjoy live entertainment, win awesome prizes, and pick up insider tips from current Bulldogs who know all the tricks to making the most of your time at Ferris State.”

A feature of Bulldog-to-Bulldog will be a panel of student leaders sharing their first-year experiences, offering advice and insights on campus culture, academics, and what it means to be a Bulldog, to new students.

The forum, hosted by the Student Government president, will include guided questions to help spark meaningful conversation among peers.

Bulldog-to-Bulldog, is a prelude to a formal welcome event hosted by Ferris State President Bill Pink at Top Taggart Field, 1215 Campus Drive, on Sunday, Aug. 24, from 5 to 7 p.m. This special welcome will include free food, T-shirts, games, music and more.

Students begin moving into on-campus residential facilities on Thursday, Aug. 21, and the first day of classes for the 2025-26 academic year is Monday, Aug. 25.