The 2024 UNIST Matriculation Ceremony was a momentous occasion for newly admitted undergraduates and returning students, marking the beginning of a new academic year at UNIST.
On the afternoon of February 16, the UNIST Gymnasium was filled with excitement and optimism as the Class of 2028 embarked on their undergraduate journey during the annual matriculation ceremony.
The event kicked off with an outdoor pre-ceremonial performance by the Jazz Marching Band ‘SoWhat NOLA,’ setting the tone for the festivities. Various activities were organized to welcome the new students, including 62 students offering congratulatory pickets and colorful balloons from kindergartners at the UNIST Daycare Center. Prior to the main ceremony, UNIST student clubs such as UNICH (Cheerleading squad), Unplugged (Music band), and UNISTRA (the official orchestra of UNIST) showcased their talents in the Gymnasium.
The ceremony proceeded with an academic procession, a presentation on academic statistics, the freshmen’s oath, the presentation of scholarship certificates, welcome remarks from distinguished guests, and the singing of the UNIST Alma Mater. UNIST President Yong Hoon Lee also delivered a welcoming address and shared messages with the incoming freshmen.
A total of 459 new students were officially welcomed to UNIST, with their families and professors in attendance to witness this significant milestone. The Oath of Freshmen was eloquently delivered by student representatives, SeungMin Yang, and SeoJin Park, on behalf of the newly admitted students.
To celebrate the freshmen, a surprise performance by the UNIST Faculty Choir was arranged, along with a touching video featuring messages from the parents of 86 freshmen. President Lee encouraged the students to make the most of their time at UNIST, emphasizing the importance of academic excellence, well-being, and active participation in opportunities for personal growth.
Addressing all the matriculating students, President Lee noted, “I assure you that your time at UNIST will lay the groundwork for you to communicate meaningfully and impactfully as respected members of the global community.” He then added, “We, therefore, strongly encourage you to actively participate and take full advantage of those opportunities for growth.” He further emphasized, “Study diligently, but at the same time invest your time in your physical and mental health.”
In addition to the ceremony, a campus tour for parents and a parent meeting were organized to provide insights into school life and address any queries. SooYoun Son, a Part Leader in the Administration Office of the School of New UNISTars, expressed her hopes that the event successfully welcomed and united the new students and UNIST community.