In its 65-year history, Baylor Family Weekend has taken on many forms. From a one-day event in 1960 for parents to meet their children’s professors to a weekend-long shindig complete with a barbecue picnic, the event has served many purposes. But every year since 1960, the event has had one chief goal — giving the families of Baylor students a glimpse into life on campus.

“I knew from the moment we started preparation that I wanted every aspect of the weekend to revolve around community and creating a peaceful environment,” Cantu said. “I want every person who steps on campus this weekend to feel at home and for the primary focus to be spending time with their loved ones.”

Late Night is a fun kickoff to the fall semester, a night to see friends, collect fun club merch and connect with dozens of student organizations. What students do not see is the preparation that goes into the event by members of various organizations in attendance.

The Class of 2029 ran the Line for the first time at the opening game against Auburn.

It’s a Baylor tradition for freshmen to wear their gold line jerseys and sign the very Baylor Line they’ll run across before the first game of the season. For the class of 2029, though, the event was particularly special. The excitement of the following day’s showdown against Auburn was palpable.

Running the Line is one of the most celebrated Baylor traditions for freshmen and new transfer students. The 50-year-old tradition, though, faces new students with challenges like dehydration, heat exhaustion and dog-piling over their fellow classmates.

1500 miles away from home and three years in, I can finally say I’ve somewhat made Baylor a second home. It’s never too late to join an organization that best fits you. Remember to take a deep breath. You may not be able to see the future, but you can give it your all and go for it.

Baylor is in the top five universities for first-year experience — a jump from the previous top-10 ranking in 2022, according to a recent U.S. News and World Report article. With a dedicated New Student Programs department and a variety of long-standing traditions, Baylor aims to make the first-year experience unique.

There were good parts of Line Camp, such as the friends I made and the knowledge I left with. It also helped familiarize me with the campus and nearby areas. However, between the emotional rollercoaster and the sleep deprivation, it was overbearing and a bit peculiar at times.

So, was it unbearably hot? Absolutely. Did I wait for three hours? You bet. Was it worth it? Without a doubt. The Baylor Line is not just about running to hype up the football team; it’s about camaraderie, tradition and the unforgettable memories and friends you make along the way.