We are the University of Oklahoma.
Our job is to help generations of individuals feel connected and do something bigger with their lives.
University President
When the time comes to begin exploring colleges, it can be difficult for many students to know where to start. Sooner Saturday was the University of Oklahoma’s answer — OU's premiere academic tailgate event designed for prospective high school juniors, transfer students, and their families and supporters. With everything from campus programs to OU Athletics on display, including the annual spring football game, more than 1,300 guests experienced the unmistakable energy that defines the OU experience.
The day kicked off with an opening session in McCasland Field House, where attendees experienced what so many in the OU Family have come to know as gameday traditions. First came a performance by the Pride of Oklahoma Marching Band, which featured the iconic "Boomer Sooner" fight song. Next were routines by the OU Cheer and RUF/NEK spirit squads. It was a taste of the stadium spectacle in store for them on the football field.
Afterward, OU President Joseph Harroz, Jr. took to the stage to welcome everyone with his opening address.
“We are absolutely thrilled that you all are here,” President Harroz said. “At the University of Oklahoma, we understand our obligation to you. You’re not just here to get a degree, but to grow — socially and emotionally. When you’re here, the hope is that you feel connected."
For these Sooner Saturday attendees, that connection already started to form. Sooner Showcase took place on the South Oval, where booths representing academic colleges, campus departments, and some of OU's 500+ student organizations invited prospective students to explore the possibilities that await them.
Some even created connections that could later support their academic journeys, like Michaela Susaita, a high school junior from Keller, Texas, did.
“I'm an activity officer for my student council and an ambassador for my school,” Michaela said. “It’s really exciting that there's a student council and student government here, too. I want to bring those experiences I had at my school and really make a difference at OU."
There is a place of belonging for every person in the OU Family — including parents and supporters. While students found connections at Sooner Showcase, so did their families, who discovered all the ways students are supported while on campus.
“It feels like it's a home,” said Victoria Sustaita, Michaela’s mother. “What President Harroz said today during the discussion about how OU is here to help guide them to make a difference in the world and in our community — this is exactly what we want them to experience.”
After Sooner Showcase, OU Athletics kept the Sooner Spirit rolling with several sporting events around campus. The annual spring football game kicked off midday, followed by OU softball and baseball games. Meanwhile, in Fort Worth, Texas, the OU women’s gymnastics team won their eighth national championship that same afternoon. For these visitors, the energy of OU’s sports was the perfect button on their day, and a reflection of the excellence in store for them as future Sooners.
The OU freshman application for Fall 2027 opens on August 1.
Sooner Saturday was all about introducing prospective students to the University of Oklahoma and showing them what one can do here.
