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As thousands of students are returning to the campus, the University of Arizona is gearing up for another year--and it's all starting with a welcome week of activities.

New students and their families were treated to a Welcome Fiesta at the Student Union today, using the time to teach Wildcat tradition and meet other students.

"It's really a chance for students to celebrate the fact that they're part of the Wildcat family," said Rachel Beech, director of the UA New Student Services. "And they really are starting their journey to become Wildcats for life."

For incoming freshmen it's the start of a new experience. For many students, the focus is on the upcoming football season.

Alex Fishman, a freshman from Virginia, hopes the new year brings success for athletics.

"Hopefully have a good year, a good football year...good sports year," Fishman told News 4 Tucson at the Welcome Fiesta.

For others, it's the traditions tied to athletics that is appealing.

"I'm looking forward to the Zona Zoo games and going and sitting in the Zona Zoo section...and having a blast," said Rebecca Simon, a UA freshman from Seattle.

The Student Convocation is schedule for Sunday at the McKale Center. UA President Ann Weaver Hart is scheduled to speak.