STUDENT LIFE
From Panther Welcome breakfasts to voter engagement, homecoming parades, football games and everything in between, you will have plenty to do as a Panther! Take advantage of the opportunities to learn more about the traditions of the university through orientation and welcome week activities. Cheer your fellow Panthers on at one of the many athletic events featuring Georgia State athletes.
Pounce, the blue panther, debuted in 1993. He got an upgraded look in 2009 in preparation for Georgia State Football's debut in 2010.
Welcome Panthers
Panther Welcome is Georgia State’s official welcome celebration for incoming students. This university-wide initiative, which takes place at the beginning of each fall semester, features signature events, Ask Me Booths and dozens of other festivities hosted by campus partners across our six campuses.
You’ll meet members of your Panther family, unlock valuable resources and celebrate Georgia State’s culture and tradition.
10,000+
ATTENDED ORIENTATION THIS SUMMER
25,000+
STUDENTS, PARENTS & GUESTS JOINED THE PANTHER FAMILY
Athletics
Georgia State is teeming with athletics programs that put student-athletes in the spotlight and bring crowds to their feet. We run on adrenaline, pride and the undying drive to be the best. Whether you’re playing on one of our teams or cheering from the stands, we invite you to be a part of the magic.
GEORGIA STATE HAS 16 VARSITY SPORTS TEAMS
Explore a Few of Our Departments
International Student & Scholar Services
ISSS is comprised of International Educators who provide comprehensive assistance and support for the international community at Georgia State. ISSS helps international students and scholars with their initial adjustment to the University and Atlanta; provides information and advice about immigration regulations, cultural differences, financial matters, and personal concerns; and assists them throughout their stay through cross-cultural programming.
Leadership Programs
Leadership Programs provide a variety of programs and services to assist students in developing their leadership potential and considering how they can positively influence their individual communities. All students have leadership potential. Leadership Programs’ philosophy is based on a new way of thinking about leadership that emphasizes process over position and encourages everyone to consider how they can make a positive change in the world. This philosophy is guided by the Social Change Model of Leadership Development, a leadership model designed specifically with college students in mind.
Recreational Services
Recreational Services wants you to stay healthy and physically active. We offer a wide array of programming and services on various campuses such as virtual classes, aquatics, fitness classes, instructional clinics, special events, personal training, intramurals, sports clubs and outdoor recreation. Come climb on the rock wall, recharge your mind at a yoga or fitness class, learn to swim and much more.
Student Center
The Student Center (comprised of Student Center East and Student Center West) is the hub of student activity on the Atlanta campus of Georgia State University and a focal point for the social, recreational and cultural life of the diverse campus community. A great place to hang out between classes, study and enjoy performances and events, the Student Center also offers a variety of services, food courts, the University Bookstore, Cinefest Film Theater, the Gallery Lounge art gallery, student organization resources and numerous lounges and seating areas.
Student Civic Engagement
Through volunteerism, community service and service-learning assistance, Civic Engagement supports community initiatives and leadership opportunities giving students, faculty and staff the ability to serve their communities. Civic Engagement collaborates with many Atlanta area nonprofits within the city’s diverse, community service sector, as well as campus organizations and programs providing students a variety of service opportunities.
College to Career
Career development begins your first year on campus. Do not wait until you are a senior to take advantage of the many career development opportunities offered on campus. Whether through University Career Services or another campus department, there are many programs and services available to help you connect your college experience to your career aspirations.
Be Part of the Tradition
GEORGIA STATE PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR CONNECTION FOR ALL STUDENTS.
Tailgates
Tailgating in the parking lots and areas around Center Parc Stadium is a great way to support the Panthers and meet friends both old and new. Check out the home football schedule for dates and the Athletics website for related policies. See you there.
Homecoming Golf Cart Parade
Georgia State hosts a unique Homecoming parade in the streets of downtown Atlanta with golf carts decorated to represent student organizations, academic programs, various campus groups, and the Panther Band leads the way. Don’t miss this signature event and help paint Atlanta Panther blue.
Panther Welcome
The first weeks of the semester offer non-stop engagement activities through the annual Panther Welcome celebration. Panther Welcome usually begins the weekend before the first day of school with Cinema Under the Stars, First-Year Convocation and the Welcome Party! Then, start your classes off right with free food at the Panther Welcome Breakfasts held on the first days of classes across all campuses.
A Little Good Luck
If you need some good luck, stop by Unity Plaza outside of Student Center East on the Atlanta campus to rub the nose on the bronze statue of Pounce. It’s a great spot for a selfie, too, or to meet friends in between classes.