September 15, 2025

USF Sees Record Volunteer Participation in Bull Haul Program

News Summary

The University of South Florida’s Bull Haul program has seen a significant increase in volunteer numbers, with 651 students registering to assist incoming students during move-in day. This initiative, aimed at helping new students adjust to campus life, showcased a vibrant spirit among the USF community. With over 10,000 individuals involved, the program continues to foster connections and school pride among students and volunteers alike.

Tampa, FL – The University of South Florida (USF) is experiencing a surge in volunteer participation for its Bull Haul program, which assists incoming students with moving into on-campus residence halls. This year, a record 651 students registered as volunteers, significantly higher than the 536 volunteers from the previous year. On move-in day, held on August 21, a total of 511 volunteers actively participated in the move-in process, aiding new students and their families as they navigate the transition to university life.

The Bull Haul program, established in 2008, has grown into a beloved tradition at USF, aimed at ensuring new students feel welcomed as they settle into their campus homes. Volunteers are crucial to the program’s success, assisting with moving carts, transporting belongings, and providing guidance to incoming students as they find their residence halls.

Andrew Johnson, a representative from USF Housing & Residential Education, praised the impressive turnout of volunteers, indicating that it reflects the positive influence of the Bull Haul program on campus culture. The initiative not only helps streamline the move-in process for new students but also fosters school spirit and promotes social connections among participants.

This year’s Bull Haul involved over 10,000 individuals, including students, family members, and other volunteers, collaborating to facilitate the move-in experience. All three USF campuses are set to accommodate approximately 7,500 students, anticipating full capacity in residence halls. Volunteers typically work in shifts lasting around four hours, available for both morning and afternoon periods.

The benefits of participating in the Bull Haul program extend beyond just assisting with move-ins. Volunteers are offered the opportunity to move into their dorms early at no additional cost and receive promotional gear like t-shirts and fanny packs. Feedback gathered from student participants indicates that the experience of being involved in Bull Haul helped ease their own transition into university life, with many forming new friendships before their classes even commence.

The execution of Bull Haul requires extensive preparation, encompassing months of planning to manage logistics, including traffic direction and safety protocols. Volunteers undergo thorough training to ensure they are well-equipped to fulfill their responsibilities, adhere to safety procedures, and effectively assist incoming students on move-in day.

Students like Kayla Arnst, a freshman, reported that participating in the Bull Haul program not only enabled her to make friends prior to the start of the semester but also allowed her to enjoy the perks of early move-in. Another freshman, Morgan Lay, described the event as an essential element in creating a welcoming atmosphere at the university.

As USF continues to attract more students, Johnson anticipates that Bull Haul will remain an enduring and cherished tradition, enhancing campus life and ensuring that every student feels part of the USF community from day one.