As a brand new Texas A&M Freshman, I have been able to see already how loving and welcoming this campus is. As a first-generation Aggie, but the second sibling to attend this fine university, I think our family line has many Aggies in the future.
Top 12 reasons why A&M is unlike anywhere else
The Spirit of Aggieland
“From the outside looking in you can’t understand it, and from the inside looking out you can’t explain it.” At Texas A&M, there is a beautiful feel of community and comrodery that brings all Ags, old and new together as one. Whether it be attending football games or even keeping a Texas A&M car decal on for years after graduation, you know what they say, “Once an Aggie, always an Aggie."
The Aggie War Hymn
“Hullabaloo, Caneck! Cancek! Hullabaloo, Caneck! Caneck!” Immediately, I’m sure y’all began hearing the Aggie War Hymn begin in your minds with the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band starting us all off.
This song never ceases to leave our hearts as it is sung not only at football games, but also at weddings and all kinds of events. This song is quite catchy, and it raises our attention to join and sing along whenever possible. Also, the linking shoulders and swaying is quite a way to attract a crowd, and Aggies always love to show off their spirit.
The Core
The Core is a beloved tradition at Texas A&M, and they lead so many of the fun traditions here. From being the leaders of the renowned Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band to also being the leaders of our wonderful yells, our Core is definitely a huge highlight to the great campus. They also provide a service that walk with students to where they need to go, if they feel unsafe walking alone. (This is also used as a “dating” service by some students ;) )
The Aggie Ring
The treasured Aggie ring is something to aspire to receive after 90 hours of college credit. This feat is something worthwhile, and it’s a ring that Aggies wear for a lifetime. It is not only a symbol of unity, but also of Aggie pride as students come to love and enjoy their time at Texas A&M University.
Gig’em
This is a phrase used quite often around campus, and Aggies use this as a way to support their university and school spirit anywhere they go. The thumbs up and “Gig’em” began back in "old army days" when Texas A&M played TCU in football. At that game, the phrase began as the Texas Aggies wanted to “gig” the horn frogs, and the tradition stuck.
Howdy
On campus at A&M, you are greeted by students with a welcoming “Howdy!” This tradition helps the campus feel united and friendly just as if you are on campus with all of your close family. This kind gesture allows new and old Aggies to feel right at home in the place they can always call home.
Aggie Yells
Here at Texas A&M, we don’t have cheers. We have yells. Our fantastic Aggie yell leaders lead the student body in a series of yells to pump up the crowd and to support the Texas Aggie football team. It’s important to always remember that “Farmers Fight!”
12th Man
The 12th man is a long running Texas A&M Tradition that brings all Aggies together. At football games, the students in the student section all stand in support of our lovely fightin’ Texas Aggie football team. Also, when your time is done as a Texas A&M student, you can become a member of the 12th Man Foundation and continue to support the Aggie family.
The Century Tree
In the middle of campus, there is a tree that forever remains special in the hearts of so many Ags. This place is a very popular engagement spot, and it has many traditions that go along with it, so be careful who you walk under the tree with.
The Big Event
Once a year, thousands of Aggies join together in serving the College Station and Bryan area. This event is "the largest, one-day, student-run service project in the nation.” This nationally known day is a great way for all Aggies to make a difference.
Breakaway
Every Tuesday night, hundreds of Aggies join together in Reed Area to hear from Ben Stuart and soon a new speaker. This weekly service allows for Aggies to grow in their relationship with Christ with powerful sermons and passionate worship. This awesome, Spirit-filled night helps college students find their reason and lean on Christ in the midst of a dark world.
Aggie Football
All Ags have got to love a good Aggie Football game. On our game days, the spirit of Aggieland is roarin’ with our yells and our love for our school. We stand proudly as the 12th man, willing to join in the game at a moment’s notice. Our student section is always filled and packed in with excitement in hopes to win the game.
I love Texas A&M, and so should you so please “Pass it back, Ags” and share this post.
Thanks and Gig’em!
