Every semester is a chance to start fresh.

Whether you鈥檙e navigating your first days on campus or a returning Knight, each new academic semester is an opportunity to discover what works for you, meet new people, challenge yourself and take advantage of everything UCF has to offer.

No matter what you set out to accomplish, you鈥檒l find the support to help get you there. Whether you鈥檙e in need of academic guidance, career preparation, wellness resources and support or ways to get involved, here are the tools to set you up for success.

Build Strong Habits with Academic Support

The key to overcoming academic challenges isn鈥檛 waiting until you鈥檙e struggling 鈥� it鈥檚 knowing where to turn before you get there.

If you鈥檙e adjusting to college-level coursework, working through a difficult class or trying to stay ahead, UCF provides a variety of academic support services 鈥� available in person and virtually 鈥� to help you stay on track all semester long.

Start here:

• Academic Success Coaching:鈥疭tudents are encouraged to meet regularly with their for help setting goals, staying on track, improving study strategies, managing time and connecting with campus resources.
  • Support Pop-Up Station: Visit the UCF Student Union from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, and Thursday, Aug. 27, for on-the-spot support and guidance from Academic Advocates and Academic Success Coaches.

• Peer Tutoring: The Student Academic Resource Center (SARC) offers鈥�痠n more than 30 subjects. Visit the SARC office in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 117 or the Engineering II atrium for assistance.

• : Drop in for help with undergraduate math courses and work through challenging concepts with experienced tutors.

• : Whether you鈥檙e writing your first college essay, polishing a lab report or updating your resume, writing consultants are available at every stage of the writing process.

• Academic Calendar: Refer to the official for important dates for enrollment, holidays, exams, commencement and events.

• : Academic Engagement Librarians are available to help graduate students find research materials, navigate databases, develop stronger research projects and access additional library resources and services.

• : From laptops for class to calculators for exams, this new service on the second floor of the John C. Hitt Library makes it easy to borrow the tools you need to succeed academically.

• Study Spaces: If you prefer complete silence, a lively atmosphere or the outdoors, there are plenty of places to help you stay productive. Check out some of these favorite spots across UCF鈥檚 campuses:

• • Grab your favorite drink and settle in at a coffee shop. Campus favorites like Dunkin鈥� Donuts, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Foxtail Coffee or Starbucks are ideal if you enjoy a little background noise while studying, meeting with a group or working on a project.

• • Escape the bustle of campus at the Burnett Honors College Meditation Garden, a peaceful outdoor space where shaded seating, lush greenery and a tranquil koi pond create a relaxing environment for reading, studying or recharging between classes.

• • If you’re crossing the Dr. Phillips Academic Commons Bridge between classes at UCF Downtown, pause to review your notes or catch up on reading in one of the quiet seating areas overlooking campus.

• • The shaded lounge area in front of Addition Financial Arena at Knights Plaza offers a comfortable place to catch up on assignments, meet up with friends or unwind between classes.

• • Looking for a quieter environment? in the John C. Hitt Library or find one of the many individual and group study spaces designed for focused work.

• • Take your studying outside at the Reflecting Pond by spreading a blanket on the grass or settling into a shady spot along the water. Fresh air and a change of scenery can be a great way to recharge while reviewing notes.

Prioritize Your Health and Well-Being

Taking care of yourself is just as important as keeping up with your coursework. When you feel your best, you鈥檙e better prepared to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

Through UCF鈥檚 wide variety of health and wellness services, you鈥檒l have support physically, mentally and emotionally throughout the semester.

That holistic approach to serving students recently earned UCF national recognition. The university received Insight Into Academia magazine’s 2026 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award for fostering a campus culture in which students and employees have access to meaningful wellness resources, supportive communities and proactive care.

Available student well-being and support resources include:

• Mental Health Support:鈥� (CAPS) provides all students with free around-the-clock鈥痬ental health support. Additionally, they have complimentary access to ‘鈥痑nonymous peer support community and鈥�痶eletherapy sessions throughout the semester. Students can access support by calling CAPS at 407-823-2811, visiting in person or . For after-hours support, call 407-823-2811 and press 5 to connect with a counselor.
  • Spend time with from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 27 and enjoy a mindful break while learning practical stress-management techniques as you ease into the semester.

• : Build healthy habits that support your well-being and academic success with free services and programs, including wellness coaching, FreshU Kitchen, cooking demonstrations and classes, and access to free healthy food.

• Physical Wellness:鈥� is your on-campus healthcare home, providing convenient access to primary and preventive care, sports medicine, dental care, pharmacy, immunizations, laboratory testing and more. Looking to stay active? The鈥�痟as you covered with a two-story fitness area, group exercise classes and a variety of recreational activities. For some fresh air, head to 听at Lake Claire, where you can unwind outdoors with free kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.

• Well-Being and Basic Needs Support: The Center for Student Care and Advocacy is a hub for navigating academic, personal and financial challenges. You can contact at 407-823-5607 or caremanager@ucf.edu for assistance. For help with everyday essentials, provides free food, clothing and toiletries daily to currently enrolled UCF students.

Prepare for Your Career Now

You don鈥檛 have to wait until graduation to start building your professional experience. The (DCDC) can assist you with exploring career paths, preparing for graduate or professional school,听building professional skills and connecting with employers from your first semester through graduation.

This semester, you can:

• Meet with UCF DCDC staff for resume reviews, LinkedIn profile feedback, mock interviews and more at the center.

• Get guidance from team for exploring careers that require advanced degrees and preparing and applying to graduate, health professional and law schools.

• Attend career workshops covering everything from networking and interviewing to job searching and using AI in your job search.

• Discover internship opportunities that provide you with real-world experience 鈥� and, in some cases, the chance to earn academic credit.

• Secure your next internship or job and connect with employers from a wide range of industries at the on Oct. 1 at Addition Financial Arena.

• Connect with employers, discover career opportunities and receive a free headshot at the on Oct. 28 in the Darden Auditorium.

Even if you鈥檙e only beginning to explore your career options, these experiences can help you build skills and connections long before graduation.

Find Your Community on Campus

Some of your best college memories happen outside the classroom.

Whether you鈥檙e looking to meet people, discover new interests, give back or just get out and have fun, you鈥檒l find plenty of ways to get involved and connect with campus.

Take the opportunity to:

• Find your people by joining one (or more!) 色花堂鈥檚 650+ student organizations.

• Grab your game day gear and embrace the energy of Knight Nation while cheering on the Knights across 16 sports. Students can claim free tickets to home games throughout the season.

• Make a difference through Volunteer UCF, where you can sort donations at local food pantries, tutor students, assist in hospitals and connect with the community.

• Take part in iconic UCF traditions like Spirit Splash, one of the most beloved Homecoming Week events, and Pegasus Palooza, UCF鈥檚 official welcome week featuring free events and big-name entertainment.

• Graduate students: Build connections and get involved on campus through the Graduate Student Center, a welcoming hub in Trevor Colbourn Hall Room 213, where you can meet other graduate students and participate in , including Fall Take Off, two weeks of activities that welcome new and returning graduate students.

No matter what your interests are, there鈥檚 a place for you here and a community ready to welcome you.

Know Your Transportation Options

A little preparation can make getting around campus much easier 鈥� especially during the first few weeks of the semester.

Before heading to class:

• Make sure you have the correct parking permit and know where you can park. Beforehand, review and real-time to save time and avoid hassle. Parking Garages A and I often have the most availability.

• Check shuttle routes and schedules using the UCF Mobile app or the . offers 10 conveniently located stops near most academic buildings and popular campus destinations.

• Give yourself extra travel time during the first few weeks of the semester, when campus is busiest.

Friendly reminder: A valid UCF or Daily Parking Permit is required to park on campus at all times (24/7).

Stay Organized with Essential Tools

myKnight STAR

Keeping track of classes, appointments and deadlines is much easier when everything is in one place. That鈥檚 where , powered by Navigate Student, comes in. With tools designed to help you stay organized, connected and on track, it鈥檚 your go-to resource for managing the semester and accessing the support you need.

Using the app or web browser, you can:

• View your class schedule.

• Schedule appointments for Academic Success Coaching and other campus services.

• Explore majors and career pathways.

• Connect with classmates to form study groups.

• Receive reminders about important academic deadlines and upcoming appointments.

Student Center

The Student Center, accessible through , has a new, mobile-first design and updated navigation, but the tools you rely on 鈥� such as class registration, financial aid, tuition payments, grades and academic records 鈥� remain the same. They may just be in a different place. For help finding and accessing key tools, log in to myUCF and click the banner at the top of the page to visit the Help Center. Graduate students can also use the dedicated Graduate Students tile to access resources and tools for managing their academic journey.

Make This Semester Count

No matter where you are on your UCF journey, you won鈥檛 have to navigate it alone.

The habits you build now 鈥� and the people and resources you connect with along the way 鈥� can make all the difference in your college experience.

So ask questions, get involved, try something new and take advantage of the opportunities around you.

Wishing you a successful semester, Knights. Charge On!

This guide is a resource to help you develop a sense of belonging, find community and build lifelong friendships while studying at UCF.

Marquee Events

Whether you鈥檙e studying at UCF Downtown, the , Rosen College of Hospitality Management or the main campus,听听you鈥檒l have plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Some signature events have become beloved UCF traditions听with not-to-be-missed programming:

• Pegasus Palooza, UCF鈥檚 annual welcome week, greets new and returning students to campus with a variety of events including notable headliners at Comedy Knight and Concert Knight.

• UCF Homecoming听Week,听蹿别补迟耻谤颈苍驳听Spirit Splash,听kicks听off听Monday,听Oct. 19,听and听concludes听with the UCF football team鈥檚 matchup against BYU on听Saturday,听Oct. 24.

• Space Game, a football game unlike any other in the nation, pays tribute to our UCF鈥檚 roots as America鈥檚 Space University. This year鈥檚 matchup against Baylor on Friday, Oct. 30, marks 10 years of the Space Game.

• , held each spring at听听Orlando鈥檚 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, showcases the artistic talents 色花堂鈥檚 faculty and students in performances, exhibitions, presentations and interactive experiences.

• Gather Luncheon,听a听community-building event in the spring hosted by听Wellness & Health Promotion Services and Dining Services,听听brings hundreds of students听together听听for听a free, three-course meal.

Recreation, Intramurals and Sports Clubs

In addition to its fitness and recreation facilities, the Recreation and Wellness Center has longstanding intramural and sports club programs that allow students to form friendships and win championships, sometimes on the brightest of stages.

The RWC鈥檚 intramural sports program welcomes all UCF students, especially those who are new to Orlando and haven鈥檛 met enough peers to form their own team. Thanks to its free agency feature, individuals ca听be matched up with others or be paired with an established team.

The sports club includes 45 different sports, encompassing everything from judo to lacrosse to wakeboarding and have produced some 色花堂鈥檚 most notable alumni. Gold medalist Phil Dalhausser 鈥�02, who played club volleyball while pursuing his business degree, and bronze medalist Kristen Thomas 鈥�16, who began her rugby career听as a theatre studies major听at UCF,听both went on to听represent听Team USA听at听multiple Summer Olympic Games.

For more information, visit听.

Registered Student Organizations

UCF offers more than 650 registered student organizations spanning academic, professional, cultural and spiritual, social and recreational, and sports interests.

KnightConnect听is UCF鈥檚 official involvement platform where students can explore听these organizations or even create a new one.听Each organization has its own page with meeting times, contact information,听and ways to get involved.

Visit the听听to find the organization right for you.

Greek Life

The fraternity and sorority experience has long been a part of campus life. Since the 1970s, fraternities and sororities have been providing spaces of belonging for students to grow together during their collegiate years.

Currently our UCF Greek community is comprised of 47 organizations, which all share the values of scholarship, leadership, service and brotherhood/sisterhood.

For more information visit听.

UCF Athletics 鈥� Knightmare Society and Marching Knights

UCF is a member of one of the premiere conferences in the nation, the Big 12. From听Fear the Fronds听to听Zombie Nation, the student section鈥檚 energy is听an integral part of the game day atmosphere听and gives the Knights a distinct home field (and court) advantage.

All full-time UCF-enrolled students (except 色花堂) are eligible for free tickets to home sporting events. Please note: all seating is first-come, first-served and admission is not guaranteed. For more information, especially for football and men鈥檚 basketball student tickets, please visit .

罢丑别听 is an organization built and run by UCF students and supported by UCF Athletics. Joining the official group has its perks, including football tickets automatically loaded to members鈥� Ticketmaster accounts, a dedicated fast pass entrance at all UCF men鈥檚 basketball games, and first access to post-season student ticket claims.

Students can also contribute to game-day experiences by joining听, a more than 390-member marching band student organization that performs at pregame shows, halftime shows, pep rallies and听other听fan-fest听events. By creating the soundtrack for these dynamic events, the Marching Knights serve as one of the most vibrant and visible forces for school spirit.

Engage in听Research

Undergraduate research provides opportunities to build a learning community with faculty and fellow students听while engaging听in meaningful work that听develops听solutions听for听challenges facing our communities,听industries听and the world.

In addition to forging connections with peers and mentors, this听practical experience听allows students to听build their professional resumes听before听they graduate.

, UCF鈥檚 annual university-wide celebration of research and creative scholarship showcases graduate and undergraduate research. The week is scheduled for March 29 through April 2, 2027, featuring presentations, exhibitions and other events showcasing student research.

For more information on how to get involved with undergraduate research, visit听.

贰虫辫濒辞谤别听翱谤濒补苍诲辞

UCF students live in one of the most vibrant destinations in the world, Orlando.听Whatever your interest, Orlando听likely has听it:听theme parks,听elite听sporting events,听electric festivals,听Michelin-rated restaurants,听nearby听coastlines听and听natural springs.

Orlando is what you make it, and there are ways to experience it all on a student budget.

罢丑别听听offers听discounted听tickets to various attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal听Orlando听and Kennedy Space Center.听Every spring semester, UCF students听enjoy听free, exclusive access to Universal Islands of Adventure as part of Universal Knights.

听gives Knights of all experience levels opportunities to go on hiking and camping trips at nearby springs, learn to surf, paddle through bioluminescent waters and more.

Several cultural museums in the area offer free entry,听including听the听 on the main campus,听Rollins Museum of Art听and Mead Garden in nearby Winter Park,听and the听Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida听in Maitland.听罢丑别听acclaimed听Orlando Museum of Art听offers free entry on the third Thursday of each month听as part of its Access for All initiative.

Held annually at the start of the fall semester, Visit Orlando鈥檚 Magical Dining offers a chance to sample some the area’s exceptional restaurants at a fraction of the normal cost. Savor three-course, prix-fixe dinners听 鈥� including at Aurora at the on-campus The Celeste Hotel 鈥� for just $40 or $60 per person from Aug. 14 鈥� Sept. 30, 2026.

Keep reading to discover all the ways to join the fun, connect with fellow Knights and celebrate UCF spirit all week long.

Student and Community Events

Note: Comedy Knight and Concert Knight are ticketed events with free admission for current students with a valid UCF ID. Tickets for the public may be purchased through Ticketmaster.

Oct. 13 鈥� Knights Got Talent | Memory Mall | 7-9 p.m.
Bring a blanket or chair to Memory Mall and support your fellow Knights as they showcase their special talents. This event is free for both the community and UCF students.

Oct. 14 鈥� Movie Knight: Superman | UCF Student Union, Pegasus Ballroom | 7-10 p.m.
Catch an epic鈥痵howing of Superman, plus a short film competition and concessions.

Oct. 15 鈥� Comedy Knight:鈥�Karlous Miller鈥瘄 Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Karlous Miller, known for the 85 South Show and Wild N鈥� Out. Admission is free for all UCF students. Non-UCF students can purchase $25 tickets on Ticketmaster.

Oct. 14 鈥� Foam Splash | Communication and Media Building Plaza, UCF Downtown | 12-2 p.m.
Dive into the biggest foam party of the semester. Splash into a giant foam pit and bubbly pool, enjoy tacos and ice cream, play water games and more. The first 200 attendees will get free rubber ducks and exclusive Foam Splash T-shirts.

Oct. 16 鈥� Concert Knight: JT and SoFaygo | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

Experience a high-energy Concert Knight featuring Miami rapper and special guest SoFaygo, a rapper from Michigan. Admission is free for all UCF students. Non-UCF students can purchase $25 tickets on Ticketmaster.

Oct. 17 鈥� Spirit Splash | UCF Reflecting Pond | 12-2 p.m.
The nation鈥檚 biggest homecoming tradition is back. Students will be able to run into the Reflecting Pond and attempt to catch the famous homecoming duck. There will be special guest speakers, as well as performances from the cheer team, Knightmoves, and Marching Knights. The event is free and open to both UCF students and the community.

Oct. 17 鈥� UCF Volleyball vs. University of Arizona | The Venue at UCF | Match begins at 6 p.m.
The UCF women鈥檚 volleyball team welcomes Big 12 opponent Arizona. For more information, visit鈥�.

Oct. 17 鈥� Ignite the Knight | Memory Mall | Event starts at 6 p.m., fireworks start at 8:30 p.m., weather permitting听

Bring your own towel, blanket, or chair to sit on and enjoy live music, carnival games, food, beverages, and special appearances. Then cap off the evening with a one-of-a-kind fireworks display.

Oct. 18 鈥� UCF Football vs. West Virginia | Acrisure Bounce House | Kickoff: 1 p.m.
Cheer on the Knights as they take on the West Virginia Mountaineers during the homecoming game. Purchase game tickets on Ticketmaster or through the UCF Athletics Ticket Office at 407-823-1000. For more information, check out the .

Alumni Events

Oct. 16 鈥� Shining Knights Alumni Awards Reception | Pegasus Ballroom, UCF Student Union | 6-9 p.m.
The Shining Knights Alumni Awards honor UCF鈥檚 outstanding alumni and community leaders who have significantly contributed to the university and the community. The UCF Alumni family is honored to recognize nine honorees at this year’s reception. 鈥痑nd include a pre-reception with heavy hors d鈥檕euvres, cocktails and dinner.

Oct. 17 鈥� Ignite the Knight | Memory Mall | 6-8:30 p.m.
Join Knight Nation for a family-friendly UCF festival celebrating the eve of the big football game. Enjoy live music, food, beverages, carnival games and special appearances, then cap off the evening with a one-of-a-kind fireworks spectacular. .

Bonus: by bringing sealed, individually packaged Halloween candy, small toys or crafts. These items will be collected at Ignite the Knight.

Oct. 18 鈥� UCF Alumni Tailgate | UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | Three hours before kickoff
Head to the UCF鈥疐AIRWINDS Alumni Center three hours before the Knights charge the field to take on the West Virginia Mountaineers. Admission to this family-friendly zone is complimentary for all UCF alumni and guests.

Oct. 18 鈥� UCF Black Alumni Community Family Reunion and Tailgate鈥�| UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | Three hours before kickoff
Head to the ultimate tailgating experience, hosted by the UCF Black Alumni Community, three hours before the Knights take on the West Virginia Mountaineers. Enjoy a DJ, giant yard games, guest appearances and more. while they last. This event is open to all alumni and guests.

Oct. 18 鈥� 听UCF Regional Community Watch Parties | Locations vary | Time varies听Not able to come to campus? Regional Knights communities will host local watch parties before the UCF vs. West Virginia game 鈥� and everyone is invited.鈥�.

Oct. 19 鈥� Trick or Treat on Greek Street鈥�| Greek Park Drive | 2-5 p.m.
The UCF Greek Community is hosting its annual Trick or Treat on Greek Street. This family-friendly event brings Halloween fun to the Central Florida community 鈥� and everyone鈥檚 invited.

in your group. All registered Greek alumni will be entered for a chance to win.

Forward Anzhan茅 Hutton attempts a jump shot to score in the Addition Financial Arena. UCF defeated Wichita State 59-56.

Kareem Ahmed, associate professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, is the principal investigator of a new Naval Research Laboratory-funded project to create a morphing hypersonic engine for ultra-fast travel.

The UCF/Universal Creative Lab, which launched Spring 2023, brings immersive design learning experiences to students to cultivate the next generation of themed entertainment innovators. The class opened to graduate students in UCF鈥檚 , which is directed by Professor Peter Weishar.

Pushing the frontier of space research, Associate Professor of Physics Adrienne Dove is co-leading NASA鈥檚 $35 million science mission to the moon鈥檚 Gruithuisen Domes, which is expected to launch in 2026.

A participant in the 15th annual UCF Iron Knight Challenge drags weights across a field in a race to complete eight physical fitness tasks along a military-style obstacle course.

Forward Taylor Hendricks is UCF men鈥檚 basketball鈥檚 third NBA Draft selection in program history. Hendricks was selected by the Utah Jazz with the No. 9 overall pick of the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft.

Jane Gibson, from听the College of Medicine, was selected as one of four听2023 Pegasus Professors, the university鈥檚 highest faculty honor. Professors Stephen Fiore, Jennifer Kent-Walsh and Marianna Pensky were also selected.

Rapper and singer Doechii performed at UCFest Concert Knight presented by Campus Activities Board at the Addition Financial Arena.

During UCF Celebrates the Arts 鈥� a multi-day showcase of creativity 鈥� student cellists and other UCF musicians performed orchestral classics at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts.

Backstage during a UCF Celebrates the Arts production at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts in downtown Orlando.

Ballet dancers captivated the stage during TECH-nique: A Dance Concert at UCF Celebrates the Arts, which focused on the intersection of arts and technology this year.

Knights posed for photos in the Student Union during UCF Day of Giving 2023; an impactful celebration that ended with Knight Nation raising over $6.8 million 鈥� the most in university history 鈥� to support our local community, fund life-changing scholarships, power championship athletics, build 21st century learning facilities, fuel innovative research and enhance the university鈥檚 global reputation.

A graduate from Spring 2023 commencement celebrates with loved ones.

UCF students spend a day outdoors in downtown Orlando, which ranks as the No. 1 Best College City in Florida, according to WalletHub.

Principal Investigator and Associate Professor of听Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering听Helen Huang works with student Jordan Grubb to understand how the brain and body work together 鈥� valuable research to assist those with impaired movement.

The Charging Knight statue 鈥� representative 色花堂鈥檚 excellence in academics, its partnerships with the community and its athletics program 鈥� sits near the main entrance of FBC Mortgage Stadium.

College of Optics and Photonics Associate Professor Kyu Young Han works with doctoral student Katelyn Canedo听鈥�16 in the , which focuses on optical nanoscopy. Han is an expert in designing new optical tools for biological applications, including ones that could aid in the understanding of human protein linked to diseases.

Student researchers gain hands-on experience with lasers in a lab in the College of Optics and Photonics.

Two students take a selfie with Knightro during the Welcome Back Popsicle Social event hosted by the Office of the President at the Reflecting Pond on the first day of the fall semester.

Political science student Sebastian Jimenez dives into a book outside of the John C. Hitt Library 鈥� carrying on the late president emeritus鈥� core belief that education transforms lives.

Jersey Shore star and DJ, Pauly D, gets the crowd pumped during his pregame set at Bounce House Live at IOA Plaza before UCF football鈥檚 first Big 12 home game.

Fans filled FBC Mortgage Stadium for the first Big 12 home football game against Baylor.

The School of Modeling, Simulation and Training secured an advanced dog-like robot named TapeMeasure 鈥� allowing them to bring students, faculty and new technology together for听innovative research听and teaching.

UCF Creative School for Children held a foam splash event to provide its own Spirit Splash-like experience for preschoolers during Homecoming Week.

Knightro surfed over a crowd of students at Spirit Splash during Homecoming Week.

Knights charged into the Reflecting Pond to catch coveted homecoming rubber ducks at Spirit Splash.

During Spirit Splash, the dance team amped up the crowd before Knights rushed into the Reflecting Pond.

Knightro hyped up the crowd from the sidelines at the homecoming football game against West Virginia.

Assistant Professor of Theme Park and Attraction Management Carissa Baker (middle) works with students to understand theme park storytelling. Baker is a 2023 Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching awardee.

Track and field sprinters Latasha Smith (left) and I鈥橝sia Wilson (right) pose with their collection of championship rings at a tailgate event before UCF football鈥檚 Space Game.

Football in tow, tight end Alec Holler moves up the field during UCF鈥檚 annual Space Game. The Knights defeated Oklahoma State, 45-3, marking their seventh consecutive win since the Space Game debuted in 2017.

Keep reading to discover all the ways you can have fun and celebrate what it means to be a UCF Knight all week long.

Comedy Knight and Concert Knight are ticketed events with free admission for current students with a valid UCF ID. Tickets for the public may be purchased through Ticketmaster.

Student and Community Events

Oct. 23 鈥� Homecoming Kickoff Featuring Knights Got Talent | Memory Mall | 5:30 p.m. kick-off, 8 p.m. showtime

Bring a blanket or chair to Memory Mall and watch your fellow Knights showcase their special talents. Enjoy live performances, a DJ, and lots of free swag. This event is free for both the community and UCF students.

Oct. 24 鈥� Comedy Knight: Chico Bean | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

Enjoy an evening laughing with your fellow Knights. This year鈥檚 act is Chico Bean known for the 85 South Show and Wild N鈥� Out. Floor seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Oct. 25 鈥� Movie Knight: Scream VI | Pegasus Ballroom | Doors open at 7 p.m., movie starts at 8 p.m.

Come only if you dare for a premier screening of Scream VI. Enjoy free popcorn and take home some free swag. This event is open to UCF students and the community.

Oct. 26 鈥� Foam Splash | Communication and Media Building Plaza & Terry Avenue, UCF Downtown | Noon 鈥� 2 p.m.

UCF Downtown may not have a pool or a pond, but you can still splash into Homecoming Week. Jump into a foam pit, enjoy good eats, play water games, enter giveaways and more. All attendees must present a valid student ID at check-in.

Oct. 26 鈥� Concert Knight: Rico Nasty | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

UCF Homecoming is proud to announce a high energy Concert Knight featuring Rico Nasty. The edgy rapper and singer from Washington, D.C., burst onto the scene in 2018 and is widely known for hits like 鈥淧oppin.鈥�

Students must secure a free ticket at ticket distribution to attend. Tickets for the public are available for purchase for $25 on Ticketmaster. For additional information, please contact听hcmusic@ucf.edu.

Oct. 27 鈥� Spirit Splash | Reflecting Pond | Noon

UCF鈥檚 biggest homecoming tradition is back. Students will be able to run into the Reflecting Pond and attempt to catch the famous homecoming duck. There will be special guest speakers, as well as performances from the cheer team, Knightmoves and Marching Knights. This event is free and open to UCF students and the community.

Oct. 27 鈥� UCF Volleyball vs. Texas Christian University | The Venue at UCF | 7-9 p.m.

The UCF volleyball team welcomes Big 12 opponent TCU. For more information, visit .

Oct. 27 鈥� Ignite the Knight: A UCF Tradition | Memory Mall | Lawn opens at 5:30 p.m., fireworks start at 8:30 p.m.

Bring your own towel, blanket, or chair to sit on and enjoy live music, carnival games, special appearances, a fireworks display and food galore. This event is free for UCF students and the community.

Oct. 28 鈥� UCF Football vs. West Virginia | FBC Mortgage Stadium | Kickoff at noon

Watch the Knights take on the West Virginia Mountaineers during the homecoming game. Contact the UCF Athletics Ticket Office at 407-823-1000 or online听to purchase game tickets.

Oct. 28 鈥� Royalty Crowning | FBC Mortgage Stadium | Halftime at the UCF vs. West Virginia football game

Watch the Knights take on West Virginia and during halftime UCF鈥檚 2023-24 Homecoming Court will be crowned.

Alumni Events

Oct. 22 鈥� U Can Finish Race: 5 Miles and 2 Miles | Memory Mall | 7:30 a.m.-Noon

The U Can Finish Race is back. Join runners and walkers on a tour around UCF by participating in the 2 miles, 5 miles or both with the Distance Dare. 听and use the UCF Alumni discount code UCFALUMNI23.

Oct. 26 鈥� The Shining Knights Alumni Awards | Pegasus Grand Ballroom | 6-9 p.m.

The Shining Knights Alumni Awards honor UCF鈥檚 outstanding alumni and local leaders who have significantly contributed to the university and the community. The UCF Alumni family is honored to recognize four distinct awards at this year’s reception. 听and include a pre-reception with heavy hors d鈥檕euvres, cocktails and dinner, followed by an awards ceremony.

Oct. 26 鈥� Feast on the 50 | Camping World Stadium | 5-8 p.m.

This one-of-a-kind tailgate on the field at Camping World Stadium includes a night full of food, family and fun. Enjoy unlimited food and drink provided by caterers and restaurants from around Orlando. Visit the Greater Orlando Knights tent and get some fun swag. Get tickets here for the event.

Oct. 27 鈥� Burnett Honors College: Home For Homecoming | Burnett Honors College | 5-7:30 p.m.

Burnett Honors College and UCF Honors alumni and friends are invited to visit the Honors College to reconnect with the deans and old friends. Food and drinks will be available free of charge, including beer donated by听Orlando鈥檚 Deadwords Brewing Company. . Plus, stick around for the fireworks display at 7 p.m. on Memory Mall.

Oct. 28 鈥� Young Alumni Tailgate | SGA Boardroom, UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | 9-11 a.m.

Recent graduates can head to the ultimate tailgating experience on gameday, exclusively for young alumni.听Enjoy a DJ, giant yard games, guest appearances and more. Tickets are complimentary听for alumni ages 32 or younger and include 4Rivers bites and one drink ticket. .

Oct. 28 鈥� Alumni Tailgate听| UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | Three hours before kickoff

Head to the UCF听FAIRWINDS听Alumni Center three hours before the homecoming football game to charge up before the team charges on to the field. Admission for this family-friendly zone is complimentary for all UCF alumni and guests and no registration is required.

Oct. 28 鈥� Black Alumni Community Family Reunion and Tailgate听| Front Lawn, UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | 9-11 a.m.

Reunite with fellow Knights before the homecoming football game and enjoy food, drinks, games and a DJ spinning all the hits you love. . Game tickets听are not included in tailgate registration and may be purchased separately online.

Oct. 28 | Alumni Watch Parties | Locations vary | Time varies

Not able to come to campus? Regional Knights communities will host local watch parties before the UCF vs. West Virginia game 鈥� and everyone is invited. .

To attend Concert Knight and Comedy Knight, students must secure tickets during ticket distribution Oct. 11-21. A limited number of tickets will be distributed each day on a first-come, first-served basis. Students must present a valid UCF ID to receive tickets. Tickets for Comedy Knight and Concert Knight will also be available for purchase by the public through Ticketmaster.

Ticket Distribution

Main campus ticket distribution is as follows:

Oct. 11 | Student Union Patio | 6-9 p.m.

Oct. 12 | Student Union. Patio | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Oct. 14 | RWC Patio | 11 a.m. – 3p.m.

Oct. 17 | Student Union Patio | 6-9 p.m.

Oct. 18 |RWC Patio | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Oct. 19 | Student Union Patio | 6-9 p.m.

Oct. 20 | Student Union. Patio | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Oct. 21 | Lake Claire | 8-11 p.m.

UCF Downtown ticket distribution is as follows. Valencia Downtown students may also claim tickets with a valid student ID:

Oct. 11 | UnionWest, Second Floor Lobby | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Oct. 12 | UnionWest, Second Floor Lobby | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

UCF Downtown will also provide shuttles to Concert Knight. More information will be provided by UCF Downtown Student Life.

For Rosen College ticket distribution, check the UCF Homecoming Instagram account.

Student and Community Events

Oct. 24 鈥� Homecoming Kickoff Featuring Knights Got Talent | Memory Mall | 5:30 p.m. kick-off, 8 p.m. showtime

Bring a blanket or chair to Memory Mall and watch your fellow Knights showcase their special talents.

Oct. 25 鈥� Movie Knight: Lightyear | Pegasus Ballroom | Doors open at 8 p.m., movie starts at 8:15 p.m.

Join Buzz Lightyear and friends on a new adventure. Enjoy free popcorn and take home some free swag. This event is open to UCF students and the community.

Oct. 26 鈥� Comedy Knight: Marlon Wayans | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

Enjoy an evening laughing with your fellow Knights. This year鈥檚 act is Marlon Wayans, most known for White Chicks, the Scary Movie franchise and The Wayans Bros. 听Floor seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Students must secure a free ticket at ticket distribution to attend. Tickets for the public are available for purchase for $25 on Ticketmaster.

Oct. 27 鈥� Foam Splash | Communication and Media Building Courtyard, UCF Downtown | Noon

UCF Downtown may not have a pool or a pond, but you can still splash into homecoming week. Jump into a foam pit, check out photo stations and a mechanical shark, and eat corn dogs.

Oct. 27 鈥� Concert Knight: T-Pain | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

UCF Homecoming is proud to announce a high energy Concert Knight featuring T-Pain. The Florida rapper, singer and songwriter is known for hits like 鈥淐an鈥檛 Believe It,鈥� 鈥淏artender,鈥� 鈥淏uy U a Drank,鈥� and 鈥淚鈥檓 Sprung.鈥�

Students must secure a free ticket at ticket distribution to attend. Tickets for the public are available for purchase for $25 on Ticketmaster. For additional information, please contact hcmusic@ucf.edu

Oct. 27-Oct. 29 | Theatre UCF Presents Working | UCF Theatre, Main Stage | 7:30 p.m.

Join Theatre UCF Thursday, Friday or Saturday night for a unique and patchwork account of class through monologues and songs that compel us to take a peek in the lives of everyday laborers in this country with heart, compassion and gratitude. .

Oct. 28 – Spirit Splash | Reflecting Pond | Noon

UCF鈥檚 biggest homecoming tradition is back. Students will be able to run into the Reflecting Pond and to attempt to catch the elusive ducks. There will be special guest speakers, as well as performances from the Cheer Team, Knightmoves and Marching Knights. This event is free and open to UCF students and the community.

Oct. 28 – Step Show | Addition Financial Arena | 7 p.m.

UCF Homecoming and the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) will be hosting its Step Show Competition. This will not only serve as a showcase of one of the most significant cultural aspects that all of NPHC organizations were created upon, but also a platform for our Black, Greek-lettered organizations to display their talents to the university and local community.

Student tickets are free with a valid UCF ID. Tickets for the public may be purchased for $15 on Ticketmaster. For additional information please contact hcstep@ucf.edu

Oct. 28 鈥� Fireworks Festival | Memory Mall | Lawn opens at 9 p.m., fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.

After the Step Show, enjoy the traditional fireworks display. Feel free to bring your own towel, blanket or chair to watch the show.

This event is free and available to UCF students and the community.

Oct. 29 鈥� UCF Football vs. Cincinnati | FBC Mortgage Stadium | TBD

Watch the Knights take on the Cincinnati Bearcats and during the homecoming game. Contact the UCF Athletics Ticket Office at 407.823.1000 or online to purchase game tickets.

Oct. 29 鈥� Royalty Crowning | FBC Mortgage Stadium | Halftime at the UCF vs Cincinnati football game, kickoff is TBD

Watch the Knights take on Cincinnati and during halftime UCF鈥檚 2022-23 Homecoming Court will be crowned.

Alumni Events

Oct. 22 – Knights Give Back | Locations vary | Times vary

This year UCF Alumni is proud to partner with Volunteer UCF to offer service opportunities across the nation. A list of local Knights Give Back events are below.

• Central Florida Zoo:听听Support the Zoo as they host the annual Boo Bash.
• Clean the World:听Their mission is to collect and recycle discarded soap and plastic bottles from hospitality partners to repurpose for use to prevent hygiene-related illnesses and death of impoverished people.
• Second Harvest Food Bank:听Second Harvest’s mission is to create hope and nourish lives through a powerful hunger relief network, while multiplying the generosity of a caring community.

Additional locations will be hosted around the country and can be found here.

Oct. 23 – U Can Finish Race: 5 Miles and 2 Miles | Memory Mall | 7:30 a.m.-Noon

The U Can Finish Race is back! Join runners and walkers on a tour around the 色花堂 by participating in the 2 miles, 5 miles or both with the Distance Dare.

and use the UCF Alumni discount code UCFALUMNI22.

Oct. 27 – The Shining Knights Alumni Awards | The Celeste Hotel | 6-9 p.m.

The Shining Knights Alumni Awards听honor UCF鈥檚 outstanding alumni and local leaders who have significantly contributed to the university and the community. The UCF Alumni family is honored to recognize six distinct awards at this year’s reception. and include a pre-reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and dinner, followed by an awards ceremony. Table sponsorship opportunities can be found听.

Oct. 28 – Marching Knights Alumni Social | Burger U UCF | 8 p.m.

Mingle with fellow band alumni and enjoy dinner and a fireworks display.

Oct. 28 鈥� Black and Gold Block Party | Memory Mall | 6:30-9:30 p.m.

UCF Alumni is hosting a block party on Memory Mall for Knight Nation to celebrate the eve of the big game at this family-friendly event. Enjoy live music, food, beverages, carnival games and special appearances. A fireworks show will be held on Memory Mall following the event. .

Oct. 28 鈥� Young Alumni Takeover | UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | 9 p.m.-midnight

Keep the party going with a DJ, giant yard games, food, drinks and more. .

Oct. 29 鈥� Marching Knights Alumni Reunion | UCF Band Facility | All day

Watch the Marching Knights practice, enjoy a reunion breakfast immediately following band practice and have the opportunity to march on the field with current Marching Knights during the homecoming game halftime show.

Oct. 29 鈥� Alumni Tailgate | UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center | Three hours prior to kickoff

Head to the UCF FAIRWINDS Alumni Center three hours before the homecoming football game to charge up before the team charges on to the field. Admission for this family friendly zone is free for all UCF alumni and guests and no registration is required.

Oct. 29 | Alumni Watch Parties | Locations vary | Time varies

Not able to come to campus? Regional Knights communities will host local watch parties before the UCF vs. Cincinnati game 鈥� and everyone is invited. .

Knights are expected to wear face coverings during in door gatherings. UCF also encourages attendees of in-person events to get vaccinated, if they have not already.听The UCF Student Health Center is currently offering the Pfizer vaccine to students and employees. Appointments are available and walk-ups are welcome. If you are currently away from campus, there are still plenty of opportunities for you to get vaccinated. Use this COVID-19 vaccine locator to find a place near you.

Comedy Knight and Concert Knight are ticketed events with free admission for students. For information about distribution dates and times, click here. Tickets will also be for sale for the public on Ticketmaster.

Here鈥檚 what鈥檚 happening during the weeklong celebration taking place Nov. 1 鈥� 5, including events for UCF Alumni, events at the main and UCF Downtown campuses, and a few events leading up to Homecoming Week.

Pre-celebration Events

Oct. 25 鈥� 2 Fast 2 Trivia | Student Union, Cape Florida Ballroom 316 CD |听
Test your knowledge of the Fast and Furious franchise for a chance to win Homecoming swag.

Oct. 27 鈥� Downtown Homecoming Kick-off | DPAC Seneff Plaza | Noon 鈥� 2 p.m.
Kick-off the UCF Homecoming Week festivities with this Homecoming preview event for the downtown campus. Meet members from the UCF Homecoming Committee and get information about Homecoming events and how to get tickets for the following week’s events.

Homecoming Week Events

Nov. 1 鈥� Where鈥檚 Chuck? | Memory Mall | 9-10 a.m.
Throughout the week photo opportunities with a giant inflatable Homecoming duck will be available on main campus.

Nov. 1 鈥� Homecoming Kick-off | Reflecting Pond | Noon
Kick-off the best week of the year at the Reflecting Pond. Enjoy live performances, a DJ, free popcorn, snow cones and lots of free swag.

Nov. 1 鈥� Movie Knight: Fast & Furious 9 | Memory Mall | 7 p.m.
Watch the latest installment of the Fast and Furious franchise on the big screen.

Nov. 2 鈥� Where鈥檚 Chuck? | Student Union | 9-10 a.m.
Throughout the week photo opportunities with a giant inflatable Homecoming duck will be available on main campus.

Nov. 2 鈥� What You Know About Comedy? | Student Union, Room 223 | Doors open at 11 a.m., Show takes place noon to 2 p.m.
See how well you know this year鈥檚 Comedy Knight act and acts from previous Homecoming performances.

Nov. 2 鈥� Comedy Knight: Jimmy O. Yang听| Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 6:15 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. | Free tickets for students; Public tickets available for purchase on Ticketmaster
Get ready for a night of big laughs with some incredible talent! 听Robby Hoffman, Workin’ Mom and听Odd Squad, which she earned an Emmy for in 2019 for writing,听performs as the opener. Comedian and actor Jimmy O. Yang, who’s starred 听in Crazy Rich Asians, ABC’s听Fresh Off the Boat and Netflix’s听Silicon Valley,听will headline the show.

Nov. 3 鈥� Where鈥檚 Chuck? | Reflecting Pond | 9-10 a.m.
Throughout the week photo opportunities with a giant inflatable Homecoming duck will be available on main campus.

Nov. 3 鈥� Battle of RSOs | Live Oak Ballroom | 11 a.m. 鈥� 1 p.m.
Sign up your RSO or group of friends to compete in mini games to win Homecoming swag.

Nov. 3 鈥� Foam Splash | UCF Downtown, between DPAC and the Communication and Media building | Noon 鈥� 1 p.m.A variation of Spirit Splash for UCF and Valencia College students at UCF Downtown.

Nov. 3 鈥� Knights Got Talent | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m.
Watch Knights compete and showoff their skills to see who will place first, second and third.

Nov. 3 鈥� UCF Downtown Movie Knight | UnionWest at Creative Village, room 111 | 6 p.m. For UCF and Valencia College students at UCF Downtown who may have missed the main campus Movie Knight or who鈥檇 like to attend a second showing, Fast & Furious 9 will be showing.

Nov. 4 鈥� Where鈥檚 Chuck? | Student Union | 9-10 a.m.
Throughout the week photo opportunities with a giant inflatable Homecoming duck will be available on main campus.

Nov. 4 鈥� Concert Knight | Addition Financial Arena | Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. | Free tickets for students; Public tickets available for purchase on Ticketmaster

Multi-platinum recording artist Tinashe, known for 鈥�2 On鈥� (ft Schoolboy Q) and 鈥淎ll Hands on Deck鈥� will perform alongside Florida rapper Denzel Curry best known for his hit songs 鈥淯ltimate鈥� and 鈥淐lout Cobain.鈥�

Nov. 5 鈥� Spirit Splash | Reflecting Pond | Noon
UCF鈥檚 biggest Homecoming tradition is back in full effect. Students will be able to rush into the Pond and catch the elusive ducks during the annual event. There will also be special guest speakers, as well as performances from the cheer team, Knightmoves and Marching Knights.

Nov. 5 鈥� Fireworks Festival | Memory Mall | CANCELED TO WEATHER
This event, which is open to the public, features live performers, food trucks, inflatables and lots of free swag. Fireworks, which can also be seen from the top of parking garages C and H, start at 9 p.m.

Nov. 5 鈥� NPHC Stroll Show | Addition Financial Arena | 7 p.m.
Join UCF organization from the National Pan-Hellenic Council as they put on a showcase and engage in some friendly competition to declare one group as the overall 2021-22 stroll show听winner.

Nov. 6 鈥� Homecoming Game (UCF vs. Tulane) and Royalty Crowning | Bounce House | 4 p.m. | Tickets available on Ticketmaster
Watch the Knights take on the Green Waves and during half-time UCF鈥檚 2021-22 Homecoming court will be crowned.

Student Ticket Distribution

Students will need a valid UCF ID to pick up tickets during the following dates and times. Students can pick up both a Comedy Knight and Concert Knight ticket at the same time.

Oct. 20 | Noon-3 p.m. | In front of the Recreation and Wellness Center
Oct. 25 | Noon-3 p.m. | Student Union Patio
Oct. 26 | 6-8:30 p.m. | Student Union Patio
Oct. 27 | Noon-3 p.m. | In front of the Recreation and Wellness Center
Oct. 29 | Noon-3 p.m. | Student Union Patio
Oct. 31 | 5:30-8 p.m. | In front of the Recreation and Wellness Center

UCF Alumni Homecoming Events

Back by popular demand, limited-edition Homecoming Spirit Box is the easiest way for UCF alumni to get this year鈥檚 duck and help strengthen UCF traditions for the next generation of Knights. By听making a gift听of $60 or more by Oct. 24听to the Athletics ChargeOn Fund or the OSI Student Experience Fund, you鈥檒l receive one of only 500 Homecoming Spirit Boxes 鈥� complete with UCF sunglasses, tech stickers, a black and gold pom-pom, and this year鈥檚 special duck, celebrating the 50th anniversary 色花堂 Homecoming.

Please note Comedy Knight, Concert Knight, and the UCF vs. Tulane football game are also open to UCF Alumni who purchase tickets.

Nov. 3 鈥� ChargeOnPanel: Uniquely UCF听| 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | UCF听FAIRWINDS听Alumni Center or Zoom | Register here
Join some accomplished alums as they discuss space, science, sports and entertainment with some 色花堂鈥檚 industry leaders. The panelists will discuss how UCF has played a role in their lives, their experiences in their industry, and provide advice for the future. Those who attend this free event will receive UCF swag for their participation.

Martiza Martinez 鈥�00听鈥�05MA听鈥�11MBA, associate vice president for the Division of Government and Community Relations and director for the Office of Community Relations and Economic Development at UCF will emcee the event. Panelists are as follows:

• Clay Newbill 鈥�82, two-time Emmy award winner, creator of Shark Tank and a 2021 UCF Alumni Distinguished Alumni Award Honoree.
• Kristen Thomas 鈥�16, USA Rugby Team, 2020 Olympian.
• Michael Metzner 鈥�16MD, general surgery resident, medical advisor for ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy.

Shining Knights Alumni Awards Reception |听Nov. 5 |听Invitation Only
UCF Alumni celebrates alumni and friends who have used their education, grit and enthusiasm to make contributions toward making the world a better place. This private event听honors the university鈥檚 most devoted supporters.

Nov. 5 鈥� Black and Gold Takeover | 9 p.m.-1 a.m. | Bounce Social House | Check here for more details
There鈥檚 no denying Knight Nation鈥檚 strength in numbers, so join the UCF Young Alumni Council for a night out as they take over in black and gold on the eve of the Homecoming football game. A ticket includes two complinerary drink tickets, one food voucher and a Knight’s Kit 色花堂 swag. All alums over the age of 21 are welcome to attend.

Nov. 6 鈥� UCF Alumni Tailgate | Begins 1 p.m. | UCF听FAIRWINDS听Alumni Center parking lot
This free tailgate for UCF alums requires no reservations, all you need is a valid ID/driver鈥檚 license. 4Rivers BBQ will be available for purchase and Florida Distributing and Oviedo Brewing Company will provide complimentary beer while supplies last.

Nov. 6 鈥� UCF Watch Parties听| Times vary | In-person events
Celebrate game day with UCF Alumni watch parties across the nation. Alumni chapters and clubs are hosting free watch parties to inspire the spirit of game day even when you’re far away. Find your local听watch party听to cheer on the Knights all season long.

Like the rest of the 1,700 participating graduates expected to attend this special commencement celebration, Park completed the requirements for her degree in 2020, but the Florida Board of Governors required all of Florida鈥檚 state universities last year to hold virtual commencement ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

鈥淗onestly, I thought the university talked about a make-up ceremony last year because they didn鈥檛 have the heart to say 鈥榗anceled,鈥� 鈥� says Park, who earned a master鈥檚 degree in materials science and engineering.

Many graduates from the spring, summer and fall classes of 2020 shared her skepticism and went on with their lives and careers. Park moved to Baltimore to begin her doctoral research at Johns Hopkins. A year passed. Then an unexpected email hit her inbox announcing the opportunity for UCF鈥檚 2020 graduates to reserve a spot in the arena for an in-person ceremony. Appropriately, it would be held on the Friday of Homecoming weekend.

鈥淎t first I had to think about leaving my research team at Johns Hopkins,鈥� says Park, 鈥渂ut then I thought about my parents.鈥�

Making the Most of an Opportunity

Every returning graduate has a personal reason for coming back to UCF for that brief moment on stage.

Park and her younger sister, Yuri, grew up in Apopka. Park remembers her mother not being at the breakfast table on most mornings. After school she and Yuri would go directly to their father鈥檚 dojang, where he taught taekwondo. Park would complete her homework in the dojang, train with her dad and ride home with him. It became her daily routine.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 completely understand why my mom was gone for so many hours every day,鈥� says Park.

She also wondered why her mother stressed academics so much.

鈥淢om helped with my schoolwork as much as she could after dinner. I could tell our education meant a lot to her.鈥�

Park鈥檚 prowess in math and science grew so rapidly that eventually her mother could only offer encouragement, while her dad instilled the focus and discipline of taekwondo. Park used every bit of it to excel. She was accepted into UCF鈥檚 mechanical engineering program and earned a spot in the McNair Scholars Program, which provided a path toward post-graduate work.

In addition to learning about formulas and equations, Park developed an ability to think critically during her undergraduate education, and she began to finally realize something about her parents. She鈥檇 known the basic facts: that her mom and dad immigrated from South Korea in the early 1990s, as Park says, 鈥渇or the reason any immigrant does, because they saw the U.S. as the land of opportunity.鈥� With a changed perspective at UCF, she also appreciated what they鈥檇 left.

鈥淭hey sacrificed everything they鈥檇 known in Korea: their jobs. Their relationships. Their language,鈥� she says. 鈥淭hey literally had to start over when they came to the U.S.鈥�

In the past 20 years, South Korea has rapidly developed both socially and economically. But when Hyun and Mi Young Park lived there, they faced limitations. They grew up in impoverished communities and had limited access to higher education. At that time, just one in three high school graduates in Korea went to college.听As recently as 2009, 50% of the women in the country were employed, and 6% had either enrolled in, or completed, graduate school.

This explained why Mi Young pulled such long hours at a beauty-supply store and why Park and her sister spent so much time in the dojang. The land of opportunity wasn鈥檛 just for mom and dad.

鈥淭hey wanted to make sure my sister and I could have what they never had growing up 鈥� the best education possible,鈥� Park says. 鈥淣ow I realize that鈥檚 all they thought about.鈥�

Worth the Wait

Park received her bachelor鈥檚 degree in mechanical engineering at a UCF graduation ceremony in 2019. She knew it would be emotional for Hyun and Mi Young to see their daughter walk across the stage 鈥� representing the concept of opportunity being transformed into reality.

鈥淚 wanted that moment so badly for them,鈥� Park says.

In the days leading up to commencement, though, her grandmother became severely ill. Hyun, Mi Young, and Yuri had to fly to South Korea. Park walked alone at graduation before joining the family for her grandmother鈥檚 final weeks.

鈥淭hat was a very emotional time for reasons we didn鈥檛 anticipate,鈥� she says.

For the next 18 months, she poured her focus and discipline into master鈥檚 studies in materials science and engineering. She became the first in her family鈥檚 lineage to earn a postgraduate degree, while also earning UCF鈥檚 Order of Pegasus 鈥� the most prestigious and significant award a student can attain at the university 鈥� which would reserve her a seat in the first row at the August 2020 graduation ceremony.

鈥淭hat part of graduation was going to be a surprise for my parents.鈥�

The surprise turned to another disappointment when COVID-19 forced the ceremony to be postponed with no guarantee of when a make-up ceremony would be scheduled. A few weeks later, Park left to begin her research on materials used to build aircraft and spacecraft at Johns Hopkins.

鈥淚t鈥檚 better than I thought it would be,鈥� she says. 鈥淚鈥檓 working in a lab with scientists who are motivating me to be a better researcher and a better person.鈥�

In fact, when she briefly contemplated whether to return to UCF for graduation, her research team insisted that she go. They don鈥檛 even know Park鈥檚 whole family story.

鈥淭he ceremony is for mom and dad. I want them to know in my moment on stage that I鈥檓 saying, 鈥業 realize everything you did for Yuri and me. Now look. Your sacrifices were all worth it.鈥� 鈥�

鈥淚鈥檓 grateful to UCF for following through on a promise,鈥� she says. 鈥淔or me, I鈥檓 looking forward to my mom鈥檚 galbi-jjim [braised beef]. But the ceremony itself 鈥︹�� she pauses for a few seconds. 鈥淭he ceremony is for mom and dad.

鈥淚 want them to know in my moment on stage that I鈥檓 saying, 鈥業 realize everything you did for Yuri and me. Now look. Your sacrifices were all worth it.鈥� 鈥�

Read more about 2021 Homecoming Week Events.

History of Homecoming

UCF鈥檚 first Homecoming was held in 1971, three years after the first classes were held at Florida Technological University (FTU). Since football didn鈥檛 start at UCF until 1979, Homecoming originally coincided with basketball season, which was the university鈥檚 first varsity sport.

The Knights won their inaugural Homecoming game, 101-75, on Feb. 13, 1971, over Florida Institute of Technology, which took place at Oviedo High School鈥檚 gymnasium.

The year 1980 saw two Homecomings for the first time: one during basketball season and the first for football, which has just put together a team the year before. Four decades later, we hosted Homecoming week in the fall and again in the spring 鈥� which for the first time included Spring Splash 鈥� as we accommodated for the uncertainty that the COVID-19 pandemic introduced to our daily lives.

On the Scene

Homecoming has witnessed themes ranging from Star Trek and Space (1975) to the Wild, Wild West (1982) to Tales from the Knightside (1991) to this year鈥檚 retro-inspired look.

Homecoming week has featured everything from exciting game day matchups to parades and fire-breathing circus performers to entertainers including LMFAO, Jay Leno, Lenny Kravitz, Jerry Seinfeld, the Beach Boys, Jim Gaffigan, Icona Pop, Snoop Dogg, T-Pain, Luke Bryan and many more.

A Salute to Royalty

Patty Gray Neff 鈥�74 wrote a retrospective story about her experience as the university鈥檚 first Homecoming queen in the Fall 2013 issue of Pegasus.

Perhaps the most memorable royalty was our 1977 Homecoming queen Rita Reutter, a 58-year-old widowed grandmother of 14. Her candidacy was covered by People Magazine, the Associated Press, NBC News and even Johnny Carson鈥檚 鈥淭onight Show.鈥� She died in 2012 at the age of 93.

The following year, the university saw its first Homecoming king crowned: Bob Baker 鈥�78 鈥� who transferred to UCF from Daytona Beach Community College where he also reigned as Homecoming royalty. 鈥淚 ran for king mainly to show handicapped people that they can do the same thing a normal person can do. They (the handicapped) shouldn’t be excluded. I think now I proved, not only to myself, but to other people on campus and in the community, that the minority can be on top,鈥� Baker said in a Feb. 10, 1978, Central Florida Future article following his victory.

This year’s Homecoming court includes:

Aundrea Perez, integrated business major

Malik Bellamy, human communication major

Nehemie Francois, marketing major

Trinity McCall-Peaks, marketing major

Jaylen Brown, finance major

Jazmine Manriquez, industrial engineering major

Geela Ramos, computer science major and Burnett Honors Scholar

Anthony Moscol, biomedical sciences major and Burnett Honors Scholar

Diamond Battles, criminal justice major

Adri-Anna Harris, environmental studies major

School Spirit

Homecoming week wouldn’t be complete without the energy and passion of Knight Nation.

Spirit Splash

Spirit Splash, awarded Best Campus Tradition in 2011 by the National Association for Campus Activities, has been a staple of Homecoming Week since 1995. The annual pep rally celebrated its 25th anniversary at Spring Splash and will return to its true form this fall.

If you’re looking for more information about this year’s Homecoming week lineup, check out this complete guide.

Stay golden, UCF.

Spring, Summer and Fall 2020 grads representing each 色花堂鈥檚 13 colleges have registered for the ceremony, which will take place Nov. 5 at 9 a.m. at Addition Financial Arena and be livestreamed on .

Darin Edwards 鈥�97 鈥�10MS 鈥�11PhD 鈥� who led the charge to create Moderna鈥檚 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine 鈥� will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2020 Graduation Celebration.

In 2020, the Florida Board of Governors required all of Florida鈥檚 state universities to hold virtual commencement ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. UCF conferred more than 18,000 degrees during its 2020 virtual commencement ceremonies.

During the ceremony, graduates will cross the stage during the traditional Pomp and Circumstance processional as their names are called. Each graduate is allowed up to four guests in attendance. .

The deadline to participate in the Nov. 5 ceremony has passed. Participation in the ceremony is specifically for those graduates who missed in-person commencements experiences in 2020.

About Keynote Speaker Darin Edwards 鈥�97 鈥�10MS 鈥�11PhD

Edwards is the director of immunology in the infectious disease group at Moderna, where he led the research and development on their mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, he directs the immunology team in support of vaccine development programs and foundational research efforts, and leads work with external academic and industry collaborators including Moderna鈥檚 collaborative research efforts with the National Institute of Health, WHO, and Harvard鈥檚 pathogenesis working group.

Prior to joining Moderna in June 2019, Edwards served eight years for Sanofi Pasteur in Orlando, where he worked to develop vaccines against infectious diseases, including RSV, influenza, dengue, and yellow fever.

Edwards is a much-published researcher and academic speaker.听Through his educational background at UCF, combined with his years听of experience working on the development of next-generation vaccine听technology, he has had the unique opportunity to make a听direct and positive impact on global health.

He earned a bachelor鈥檚 in听biology, a master鈥檚 in molecular听biology and microbiology and a doctorate in听biomolecular sciences from UCF, where he was also a .

The health and well-being of all UCF graduates and their guests are the top priority of the university. Face coverings are expected while indoors for all attendees 鈥� whether vaccinated or not, in accordance with听the latest CDC guidelines.