Tradition and Texas A&M go hand in hand.

Sunday thousands of freshmen received their official welcome to Aggieland as they prepare to start classes Monday.

This year's freshmen class may set a new record.

"Howdy! Y'all are getting good at that. It is an honor to speak to you today on this the eve of the beginning of your Aggie education," said Deborah Thomas, Ph.D., an Assistant Professor of Oceanography at Texas A&M and this year's convocation faculty speaker.

Thousands of new Aggies along with their friends and families filled Reed Arena for the annual Freshman Convocation Sunday which welcomes students to their academic careers.

"When someone knocks like this... Whoop! We automatically expect to hear a loud whoop but not from a freshman or a sophomore," said Jacob Robinson, Texas A&M Student Body President.

"Welcome to Aggieland and thank you for choosing Texas A&M University for your education. We look forward to your participation in and your many contributions to our community of learners and scholars," said Texas A&M University President R. Bowen Loftin, Ph.D.

"I thought it was great just seeing everyone proud to be an Aggie," said Alex Grimm, a general studies freshman from Austin.

Freshman Alex Grimm and his buddies say they're looking forward to traditions at Texas A&M. Grimm and his 8,100 classmates registered this fall may soon be the largest freshmen class ever at the university.

Right now, one thing seems to be on everyone's mind.

"Football season, Kyle Field," Grimm said.

"Football season, it's gonna be awesome," said Texas A&M Freshman Bo Jenkins.

Bo Jenkins is a third generation Aggie from Austin.

"I liked it a lot it was very interesting good speakers... I'm pumped, I'm really pumped glad to be here," Jenkins added.

An excitement that's only the beginning of a years-long journey.