Bulldog Welcome Day 2024

Before the start of the fall semester, College of San Mateo (CSM) held its annual Bulldog Welcome Day, welcoming over 300 new students to campus. The event, organized by the Center for Student Life and Counseling Services, helped new students begin their academic journey with essential information and support.

The day began with check-in, where students received Bulldog swag bags. Greetings from ASCSM President Anthony Peña Vasquez and Dean of Counseling Krystal Duncan followed this. The morning session included a presentation by Student Life and Leadership Assistant Fauzi Hamadeh and Student Success Program Coordinator Alicia Frangos, covering topics like first-week advice, college resources, and an overview of Academic and Career Communities, including the Program Mapper presented by the Director of Promise and Guided Pathways Allie Fasth.

CSM President Manuel Alejandro Pérez and Vice President of Student Services Alex Guiriba, welcomed the new students. VPSS Alex Guiriba noted, “Bulldog Welcome Day is an important opportunity for new students to connect with the campus and feel supported as they begin their education at CSM. It’s also a testament to the incredible teamwork of our campus community, who came together to make this event a success and ensure our students start their journey with the support they need.”

The event featured a student panel moderated by ASCSM President Anthony Peña Vasquez. Panelists Michael Llanell, Guillermo Garcia Zacarias, Mya Hmuu Han, Diana Kunze, and Léa Tiller shared their experiences and advice. CSM Alumni Enzo Ferreira and Haley Donohoe also discussed Wellness and Mental Health resources available to students. Mondana Bathai, Staff Assistant for the Center of Student Life, also helped plan and organize the event. 

Student leaders, including our Outreach Ambassadors, club officers, Student Assistants, and ASCSM officers, assisted with setup, check-in, and campus tours. During the tours, students visited over 40 tables around the quad, representing various CSM service areas, clubs, and academic departments. 

The event concluded with lunch, allowing students to connect with peers and faculty while enjoying a meal together. By the end of Bulldog Welcome Day 2024, new students had the knowledge and connections needed to thrive at College of San Mateo, setting a solid foundation for their academic journey.