UO Traditions | University of Oregon Search University of Oregon Sites Explore All Majors and Degrees Request Info Apply Today Visit Us Get Tickets View All Sports View the Latest Research News Find an Expert by Research Area View Course Catalog Register for Classes Key Dates and Actions Apply Now Early: Nov. 1 Regular: Jan. 15 Financial Aid (FAFSA) Priority: March 1 Confirm: May 1 Soaring from the Sidelines Thanks to human physiology internships, these ducks are getting hands-on lessons in medicine and helping UO athletes soar. Read the Story UO Scientist Joins Nobel Winner to Explore Molecular Sponges Researchers team up to study particles that can harvest water from air. Learn About the Partnership As a top-tier public research university, the UO teaches students to think critically and act creatively with programs that shape the future. Explore 300+ programs at the UO, where big ideas thrive. Find resources to support your academic journey so you can push boundaries, fuel passions, and prepare for an impactful career. Ready to become a Duck? Explore campus, housing, and our tuition guarantee. Learn how to apply to join the flock. The UO’s sports legacy runs deep—from iconic Hayward Field to Nike’s global reach—fueling pride, progress, and our winning spirit. From ocean depths to human performance, UO students and faculty team up to tackle big challenges and create real-world change. Your go-to hub for navigating the UO—register for classes, manage finances, and get support for academics, tech, and more. UO Traditions UO Traditions From your first day on campus to graduation and beyond, University of Oregon traditions foster pride, connection, and community—uniting Ducks across generations. Featured Duck Traditions Here are just a few of the traditions that make being a Duck something truly special. IntroDUCKtion IntroDUCKtion is more than orientation. It’s your first step into life as a Duck. Register for classes, meet with an advisor, connect with future friends and professors, and start shaping your future. Connect at IntroDucktion Week of Welcome Welcome to the flock! Settle in, make new friends, and start exploring your new home. Relax with therapy dogs, get crafty at the Craft Center, or cheer at the football watch party—there’s something for everyone. Explore Week of Welcome The Flock Comes Home Each fall, students and alumni gather for festivities that have brought the community together since 1914. Show your school spirit at an unforgettable pep rally, cheer on the Ducks at the football game, and join the 5K run with the Duck. Celebrate Homecoming Mother's Day Powwow The nation’s longest-running college powwow honors our Native American communities, celebrates mothers, and recognizes graduating seniors. Experience traditional dances, ceremonies, and a community salmon bake. Learn About the Powwow University Day Each spring, the UO community comes together to refresh the campus grounds, continuing a tradition that started in 1904. From planting flowers to pulling weeds, it’s a fun way to get your hands dirty and make a visible impact on campus. Participate in University Day Commencement and Duck Reveal Since 1878, UO graduates, families, and friends have proudly gathered to honor student achievement. Celebrate your accomplishments on the field at Autzen Stadium and find out who was inside the Duck costume. Celebrate Commencement SHOUT! “Shout” is more than a song—it’s a Duck anthem. Featured in Animal House , filmed on the UO campus in 1978, it brings the crowd to its feet whenever it plays. Throw Your O Throwing your O shows pride, community, and the spirit of excellence that unites Ducks everywhere. Traditions are just the beginning. Explore the defining facts that shape the student experience at the University of Oregon. UO by the Numbers