UCLA traditions
Ways to experience being a True Bruin with traditions at UCLA
There are many UCLA traditions recognized as important and fun ways to stay engaged in the Bruin community. From becoming a “baby Bruin” to graduation, there are a variety of UCLA traditions that students may consider participating in within their college journey. Keep reading for more information on traditions as a Bruin.
For students who want to be recognized for their continuous participation in various events and activities at UCLA, consider becoming a True Bruin Traditions Keeper (TBTK). According to the New Students program page on TBTK, True Bruin Traditions are checklists of various activities and common events to go to, varying from academic and athletic activities to arts and cultural activities. To accommodate incoming transfer students, there are separate checklists for first-year and transfer students to complete as a TBTK.
As students mark up and keep verification of all of the traditions they have participated in, students are given the opportunity to receive the TBTK medal at commencement. The free True Bruin Traditions Keeper app helps students track which activities they have finished and how many they still need to do. Click the button below for more info on TBTK.
For students who are considering participating in UCLA traditions that are more generally common, the following list may be a good place to start:
Becoming Bruintized:
According to the Alumni Association on slang terms, becoming Bruintized means touching the fountain water of the inverted fountain, typically organized during freshmen or transfer orientation. This process marks students becoming an “official Bruin” and is considered good luck. In addition, it is said that students can only touch the inverted fountain water again after graduating.
Ice blocking down Janss steps:
Also on the Alumni Association page, ice blocking is a term used for students who slide down along the grass slopes on either side of the Janss steps, formally known as Tongva steps, as a unique way to make a cool memory.
Attending at least one First Thursday’s event:
First Thursdays are Westwood events held by UCLA that occur on the first Thursday of the month. According to UCLA Special Events, First Thursdays begin with a farmer’s market in Westwood Village and end with a block party with a variety of entertainment, arts and delicious local foods to try. Attending at least one First Thursday event is a common tradition among many Bruin students.
Bear Paw:
The Alumni Association notes that Bear Paw is a lesser-known tradition during final exams where Bruins can visit the Bruin Bear statue and rub the paw of the statue for good luck. The Bruin Bear is located at Bruin Plaza for students interested in participating during finals week.
Whether interested in common or obscure UCLA traditions, Bruins can engage in many events and opportunities locally and on campus. For information on Your Bruin Experience, with more ways to follow UCLA traditions, click the button below. Go Bruins!