COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – One of Texas A&M University’s many cherished traditions was on full display Sunday as an estimated 230 freshman cadets received their symbolic “Fish Cut” at the Northgate Barber Shop. This time-honored ritual, where new members of the Corps of Cadets have their heads shaved, marks the beginning of their journey at Texas A&M and serves as a foundational step in instilling the core values of the institution.
Senior cadets emphasize the significance of the “Fish Cut” as more than just a haircut. They regard it as a crucial rite of passage that fosters leadership qualities, strengthens camaraderie, and helps build enduring friendships and memories within the Corps and the broader Texas A&M community.
The Northgate Barber Shop’s owner expressed pride in being part of such a meaningful experience for the cadets, noting that the annual event is about more than just grooming—it’s about creating lasting connections. “It’s an honor to be part of such a significant tradition here at Texas A&M,” said Sue Casares. “We are the oldest tradition in Northgate, since 1935. I’m very proud of the Class of 2028. This is the beginning of a whole new fall semester and it’s so exciting to go to the Quad and watch them and talk to them and watch them march in. It’s so much fun.”
As the new academic year approaches, Texas A&M is set to welcome more than 72,000 students back to campus during Howdy Week, which begins on Thursday. The first day of classes is scheduled for Monday, August 19, marking the official start of the fall semester.
“We are maximizing the time between the start of move-in, through the first two days of classes with a variety of featured and general events on our schedule,” said Olivia Elliot, associate coordinator of Student Life’s New Student and Family Programs in the Division of Student Affairs. “Students have the opportunity to build their own Howdy Week experience and really find community in what interests them.”
The six-day schedule will include 11 featured events:
- Thursday, Aug. 15MSC Aggie Cinema Night: Megamind | 6:30 p.m. | Rudder AuditoriumMSC Programs Game Night | 9-11 p.m. | Memorial Student Center
- Friday, Aug. 16Ice Cream Carnival | 12-2 p.m. | Kyle Field PlazaLibraries Open House | 2-4 p.m. | Evans Library
- Saturday, Aug. 17President’s Picnic | 6-9 p.m. | Aggie Park
- Sunday, Aug. 18Rec-A-Palooza! | 1-4 p.m. | Student Recreation CenterGatheRing | 6:30 p.m. | Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni CenterClass of 2028 Class Photo | 8:30 p.m.| Kyle Field
- Monday, Aug. 19First Day of Class Photos | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Check website for locationsT’s & G’s with Student Activities | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Rudder Plaza
- Tuesday, Aug. 20First Day of Class Photos | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Check website for locations
In addition to the featured events, there are many student organizations and university departments hosting general events throughout Howdy Week. Explore the full schedule of events for more information.
“The overall goal of Howdy Week is to welcome students to Aggieland and foster connections through community,” said Libby Daggers, assistant director of Student Life. “The Howdy Week schedule is built with the intention of providing students with these connection opportunities.”
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