Students

First 56 St. Petersburg Campus

Signature Events

The First 56 is eight weeks packed with events and activities to help our new Bulls dive into campus life, find awesome resources, and get set-up for success - both in class and beyond!

For the latest updates and information, check out St. Petersburg's First 56 BullsConnect page. 

56 Things to do in your first 56 days!

Your first eight weeks on campus is the perfect time to explore, connect, and make USF your home. We've put together a list of 56 fun, meaningful, and must-do activities to help you make the most of your first 56 days as a Bull! 

First 56 Things To Do

56 things to do in your first 56 days!

  1. Dive into campus life by attending a Week of Welcome event.
  2. Capture the moment with your First Day Photo at USF St. Pete — your Bull journey starts here!
  3. Get a head start on your next semester by meeting with your academic advisor.
  4. Learn all the best tricks for college success by attending a #HowToCollege Workshop.
  5. Relax in a hammock at the Waterfront.
  6. Capture a memorable moment by taking a picture with our mascot, Rocky D. Bull.
  7. Snag your FREE class T-shirt at the Welcome Tent during WOW or at the NSFE Office, wear it proud, and kick off your Bull journey in style!
  8. Feel the incredible energy of a USF Athletics Football game by tailgating and sitting in the student section at a home game in Raymond James Stadium.
  9. Play a sand volleyball game at the courts behind the University Student Center (USC). 
  10. Show off your Bull pride by buying the OUR shirt.
  11. Get personalized guidance and support by connecting with your Peer Advisor Leader (PAL).
  12. Find your perfect fit by discovering and joining a student organization on Bulls Connect or attending Get on Board Day.
  13. Join in the excitement and celebrate school spirit by attending any of the Homecoming events.
  14. Create lasting memories with your loved ones by enjoying time with the family at Family Weekend.
  15. Discover exciting opportunities for work-study and experience by looking for an on-campus job using Handshake.
  16. Find your “study spot” on campus – whether it is the library, the waterfront, or your favorite coffee shop. 
  17. Stop by The Campus Grind and treat yourself to one of their seasonal coffee or tea creations.
  18. Find the Peace Pole on campus and reflect on its message of hope and unity.
  19. Join a HAB (Harborside Activities Board) event — like movie nights, craft workshops, or themed socials — and dive into campus life!
  20. Explore the Gallery at the Nelson Poynter Library and discover contemporary art, cultural treasures, and academic showcases.
  21. Visit the world-famous Dalí Museum — for free with your USF student ID!
  22. Get ready for some outdoor fun by using Campus Rec’s free outdoor and camping equipment rental program.
  23. Stop by the Student Life Center to visit SCED in Suite 1700 to learn about the USF Student Code of Conduct and receive some cool swag.
  24. Find your perfect outdoor study oasis at the Brent and Debbie Sembler Fountain. 
  25. Meet your First-Year Success Advocate and get the support you need as you transition to campus!
  26. Cheer on the Tampa Bay Rowdies at Al Lang Stadium — right across the street!
  27. Try a local coffee shop — Bandit, Black Crow, or Intermezzo.
  28. Attend Second Saturday ArtWalk in the Warehouse Arts District.
  29. Escape campus stress and embark on an exciting journey by going on one of Campus Recreation’s Sunset Cruises.
  30. Embrace a cherished tradition by taking a photo with the USF St. Pete Bull Statue on Harborwalk.
  31. Explore Pinellas County by using your student ID to get free rides on the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA).
  32. Go thrifting at local vintage shops.
  33. Spot a manatee or a dolphin from the Waterfront — right on campus!
  34. Treat yourself to a “campus” culinary classic by grabbing lunch or dinner at The Tavern at Bayboro and enjoy the live tunes.
  35. Enjoy a special treat and show your school spirit by wearing green every Wednesday and getting a discounted drink at Kahwa Coffee.
  36. Check out murals and art installations on campus and all over the city — St. Pete is known for them!
  37. Feel safe and secure on campus by using SAFE App.
  38. Set yourself up for success by exploring majors and career options by completing the Career Navigator: Kickstart Your Career Journey in Canvas.
  39. Achieve academic excellence by utilizing the Debbie Nye Sembler Student Success Center’s tutoring resources.
  40. Visit the Saturday Morning Market for food and local vendors.  
  41. Complete AlcoholEDU and learn ways to be safe around alcohol and other substances.
  42. Support your community or find assistance by donating or picking up an item from the Feed-A-Bull food pantry.
  43. Stay informed about all things USF by keeping up with USFSP’s student newspaper, The Crow’s Nest.
  44. Discover the thrill of paddling your own kayak or paddleboard on the calm, scenic waters right next to campus! The Boathouse offers free rentals for USF students (with your student ID)
  45. Hop on the SunRunner and watch the sunset at Pass-a-Grille or Upham Beach.
  46. Witness a spectacular view by watching the sunrise or sunset on top of the Parking Garage.
  47. Enjoy a refreshing dip and get some exercise at the Edge Pool.
  48. Explore the vibrant heart of the city by walking to the Pier in Downtown St. Pete.
  49. Take a picture with Snowbird — USF St. Petersburg’s comfort dog — and recharge your spirit!
  50. Uncover hidden gems and quiet study spots by visiting every floor of the library.
  51. Attend a live music show at Jannus Live.
  52. Stop by the USF Bookstore to gear up and show your school pride!
  53. Get your fitness journey started by visiting the gym on campus at the Student Life Center (SLC).
  54. Treat your taste buds to local flavors by trying out the Market at The Reef. 
  55. Access valuable resources for your health and well-being by getting free health resources from the Student Health & Wellness Center.
  56. Connect with fellow new students and get insider tips by stopping by the New Student Connections Office in Heller Hall.

Bottle Tracker

Kick-off your USF experience with your very own bottle tracker! Attend select signature events, and use the stickers provided on your starter sticker sheet to fill out your bottle.

Bottles and starter sticker sheets will be distributed at the First 56 Kickoff on Harborwalk event on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 from Noon until 2 PM. 

Stay engaged, stay active and make your first 56 days unforgetta-BULL by collecting all the stickers! Access the sticker guide below to see where and how you can collect each sticker.

First 56 Sticker Guide