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Fresno State Alumni

GradFest 2026

Your ultimate two-day graduation party! 🎓🎉

gradfest 204

Hey, soon-to-be grads! It’s time to celebrate YOU at GradFest – the ultimate two-day graduation party where you’ll pick up your Grad Box and soak in all the Bulldog spirit before the big day!

Smittcamp Alumni House (Map)
Tuesday, March 24 and Wednesday, March 25, 2026
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

‣ Happening Daily at GradFest!

speaker series

Senior Success Speaker Series

12 to 1 p.m. • Smittcamp Alumni House, Whitten Board Room

Practical advice. Real stories. Immediate next steps.
Graduation is around the corner. Before you walk the stage, join us for two powerful sessions designed to help you confidently navigate what comes next. Whether you're still figuring out your first job or wondering how to build professional connections, these sessions will give you clarity, strategy, and a real-world perspective.

Prize giveaway for attendees!
Register and attend for your chance to win a $100 gift card to Amazon!
Must be present to win.

Tuesday, March 24 • 12 - 1 p.m.

Graduation is exciting… and a little overwhelming. What actually happens after you leave campus? Join a panel of young Fresno State alumni representing a variety of industries as they share:

  • How they landed their first full-time roles
  • What surprised them most about the transition to the workforce
  • Early career pivots and unexpected opportunities
  • Lessons they learned the hard way
  • What they wish they knew before graduation

This honest, practical conversation will give you insight into navigating job searches, early career pivots, professional growth, and building confidence in your first few years after college. Stick around for a live Q&A to ask your biggest “real world” questions.

Wednesday, March 25 • 12 -1 p.m. 

You’ve heard it before: “It’s all about networking.” But what does that actually mean — and how do you do it without feeling awkward?
Join Fresno’s Leading Young Professionals (FLYP) for a practical, interactive workshop on the power of networking and how to build authentic professional relationships after graduation. Whether you’re outgoing or introverted, this session will give you strategies you can use immediately.

Whether you’re outgoing or introverted, you’ll learn:

  • Why networking matters more than you think
  • How to network if you’re not a “people person”
  • What to say (and what not to say) at professional events
  • How to follow up without feeling pushy
  • Where to start networking locally in Fresno

Walk away with real tools, real confidence, and clear next steps!

Register today

VEB

Paws & Pics with Victor E! 

9 a.m., 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Come hang out with Victor E. Bulldog for the ultimate meet & greet experience! Snap a photo, give him a high-five, and show him some love with belly rubs & scratches. Whether you're a longtime fan or meeting Victor E. for the first time, this is your chance to capture a fun moment with Fresno State’s favorite pup! Don't miss out on the paw-some memories!

grad cap

Grad Hub: Resource Fair & Stole Pick-Up

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Stop by the Grad Resource Fair to connect with campus departments, grad coordinators, career services, and alumni networks that will support you beyond graduation. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up or purchase your stole.

*Please note: Not all colleges are participating. Participating colleges/departments are:  

  • College of Health and Human Services
  • Chicano Latino Commencement Ceremony
  • Rainbow Alumnx and Allies Club

clothing closet

The Pop-Up Clothing Closet

11 a.m . to 4 p.m.

Come to GradFest and pick out free professional attire as you prepare for interviews and career opportunities as the next step in your journey. A wide selection of suits, blazers, dresses, slacks, dress shirts, shoes, and accessories will be available at no cost to help you feel confident and career ready. 

bracelet

Graduation Make and Take Craft Station

Bracelet making and junk journaling stations

Celebrate your journey by crafting a custom bracelet to commemorate your graduation. Choose your colors, add meaningful charms, and design a piece that represents your time at Fresno State, creating a keepsake to wear on your big day and beyond. You can also visit our junk journaling station to decorate the notebook included in your Grad Box or bring your own junk journal to personalize and reflect on your Bulldog experience!

headshot

Free Professional Headshots

10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Take advantage of the opportunity to have your professional headshot taken at GradFest. A polished headshot is perfect for LinkedIn, portfolios, and job applications as you begin your career journey. Dress your best and leave with a photo that helps you make a strong first impression.