Make a Cougar’s First Impression Count!
Powered by UH volunteers, this annual two-day event welcomes students to campus — and there’s still time to join in the fun.
For nearly three decades, Cougar First Impressions has greeted new and returning University of Houston students with friendly smiles, helpful directions and giveaways.
This year’s event will take place from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., on Monday, Aug. 25, and Tuesday, Aug. 26, and volunteers are encouraged to join in creating memorable first days for thousands of Cougars.
The two-day tradition, organized by UH Staff Council and powered by faculty, staff and student volunteers, sets the tone for the fall semester by making campus feel welcoming from the very first step.
We spoke with Andy Moon, co-chair for the event and manager of Technology Support Services, about what makes this tradition so special and how to get involved.
During Cougar First Impressions, volunteers answer questions, give directions, distribute water and items that help smooth the transition to a new semester.
During Cougar First Impressions, volunteers answer questions, give directions, distribute water and items that help smooth the transition to a new semester.
Andy Moon
Co-Chair of Cougar First Impressions and Manager of Technology Support Services
For someone new to UH, how would you describe Cougar First Impressions?
CFI is an event through Staff Council that welcomes students back to campus each fall. Volunteers from across the UH community including staff, faculty and students are stationed at high traffic locations. They answer questions, give directions, distribute water, literature provided by several UH departments, and donated items such as pens, notebooks and fans.
Why is CFI such an important tradition for our campus community?
Many of our students have left their families to live on their own for the first time. CFI volunteers provide a friendly face, necessary resources and helpful answers on two of the highest stress days these student have ever faced. For nearly 30 years, we have welcomed new students to campus, helped students returning to campus and kept our students hydrated in the heat of an August in Houston.
How do volunteers help during the event?
Answer questions, give directions, distribute water, literature provided by several UH departments, and donated items such as pens, notebooks and fans.
How much time do volunteers typically commit, and can they sign up for partial shifts?
We ask volunteers to commit to a two-hour shift on one of the first two days of the fall semester. If the volunteer can only commit to a partial shift, we will absolutely work with them.
What should volunteers wear or bring with them?
A friendly face and a red shirt, preferably UH branded.
Even if you don’t think you know much about campus, the important thing you do have is a friendly face who is willing to help the students through what could be a stressful, intimidating time.
What’s your favorite memory from a past CFI?
My favorite part of CFI every year is the ice cream giveaway. Beginning around 11 a.m. on both days, we bring ice cream to Butler Plaza in front of the MD Anderson Library and give it away. It’s amazing how many smiles are drawn by the three-word phrase “free ice cream!”
Anything else you’d like to share?
Even if you don’t think you know much about campus, the important thing you do have is a friendly face who is willing to help the students through what could be a stressful, intimidating time. You can definitely help to keep our community hydrated with the water provided at every table. You won't be left on an island, you'll have help anytime you need it — and you can not only make a difference but can see the positive impact you're having with the thankful looks and open smiles.
Sign up to volunteer for Cougar First Impressions today!
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