Each fall, the rich tradition of Homecoming and Alumni Weekend permeates every corner of the Coral Gables Campus. For one weekend, hundreds of alumni flock back to campus donning their orange and green to reignite their love for the University. For students, it's a time to build memories they'll reminisce about years from now and celebrate what makes the University such a special place. From the rhythmic beat of the drum on the Iron Arrow Mound on the Foote University Green to the colorful fireworks display over Lake Osceola during Hurricane Howl, Homecoming and Alumni Weekend holds a special meaning.
The following students and staff members shared about their Homecoming experiences.
Stephanie Fleitas, a 2012 graduate, works as the assistant director for the Department of Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement.
"Every Homecoming is super unique. From a staff perspective, watching the students make the week their own and seeing students getting involved and proud about being a 'Cane is the greatest part about Homecoming for me. That overall feeling of being a ’Cane and seeing that moment click for students at Hurricane Howl as a staff member—while remembering that feeling as a student—is awesome."
Rahul Babul, a senior studying biochemistry, is enjoying his final Homecoming before graduating.
“Homecoming means tradition. I’m looking forward to the food trucks, the boat burning, and of course the fireworks,” he said. “I also love having the chance to volunteer during Hurricanes Help the Hometown in the Miami community.”
Rebecca Menendez, a sophomore studying biomedical engineering, serves as the vice president of the Association of Commuter Students. As vice president, she oversees the student organization’s participation in all Homecoming events.
"Homecoming, to me, means community. Since this is my first real Homecoming since starting, I came in with a lot of expectations based on what all my older friends had told me. Getting to share memories with my fellow ’Canes and finally attend all these events that we worked so hard on … It's just a time for us to carry on our school spirit, our club spirit, and create memories that will last a lifetime."
Gabriela Nahous, a 2020 graduate, works as an admissions counselor in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. This year, she will be experiencing her first Homecoming as an alumna and employee.
"As a student, Homecoming was the first time I felt like I belonged here. Homecoming showed me the kind of community we have at the school and how important our ’Canes community is," Nahous said. "I was recently invited to be a judge for the Homecoming King and Queen pageant, which was crazy since I hosted that event as a student. It's great to see the work these students put in, having been through it. And despite any of the challenges they might have faced planning [Homecoming], it's been amazing."
Brian Betancourt, a junior studying biomedical engineering, said Homecoming Week is the perfect chance to make friends and memories while finishing his studies.
"Homecoming means being more involved with the school and being present," he said. "Finding new individuals this week to connect with, having a great time, and making friends along the way—all while still pursuing the degree I want, is what Homecoming is about. I'm looking forward to the Homecoming football game this weekend.”
Elisiene Jean, who earned her degree in 2018, has been an employee at the University for 15 years. She currently works as the circulation manager for Richter Library. Growing up in Miami, Jean never imagined having the opportunity to be a ’Cane. Now, as an alumna and employee, she bleeds orange and green.
"Homecoming means combining our entire community—the future, the past, and the present. The week is about bringing together the individuals who have made this community, this family, what it is," Jean said. "I can't wait to go to the boat burning and fireworks. It'll be my children’s first time seeing it. I want them to see that they, too, are a part of this great legacy that I worked so hard to make them a part of."
