Students
Annual Events
From Orientation in September through to Commencement in May, Whittier College hosts a number of events designed to bring together all members of our expanded family to share in traditional activities and celebrations.
Orientation. The induction of first-year and transfer students traditionally takes place over Labor Day Weekend in early September and is an opportunity for new students and their families to meet professors, administrators, and learn about life on campus.
Whittier Weekend/Homecoming. Taking place in October, this weekend of activities focuses on building the true "Poet spirit," as reunioning alumni and parents of current students mingle and take part in some of Whittier's longstanding events: Pep Rally & Bonfire, Homecoming sports games, the student carnival, and the crowning of a "king" and "queen."
Tardeada. Occasionally billed as the concluding event to Whittier Weekend, this cultural fiesta of music, food, dancing, and performance has been a Whittier tradition for more than three decades.
Family Weekend. Parents, alumni, and especially "legacy families" are invited to share in this weekend celebrating our students' academic, athletic, and artistic accomplishments.
Honors Convocation. Occurring in spring, this event recognizes outstanding student academic, service, and leadership achievement, and offers a prelude to the pageantry of graduation exercises.
Commencement. The culmination of the Whittier College experience is the formal ceremony, traditionally held Memorial Day Weekend, but the week prior to the official event includes activities for graduating seniors, their families, and returning alumni.
