Although in the 1960s, several University professors had expressed their disagreement to the Rector regarding the practice of upper-year students "shaving" or removing the hair of new first-year students. This practice was accepted until the early 1970s,

In 1973, two UCR students were expelled for two months for violating the university authorities' order prohibiting students from shaving their heads on campus. In that year alone, it is estimated that more than 800 students had their hair cut on the first day of classes.

This activity was considered a poor demonstration of culture.

At the same time, in the early 1970s, a group of enthusiastic athletes from the University held athletic exhibitions, including a running competition on campus, which would become known as "the University Mile," as part of other welcoming activities.

Since then, the shaving of first-year students was suspended, and the University Mile has become one of the most attractive events for welcoming the student population.

Welcome to classes half a century ago at the University of Costa Rica. From "pelo pelo" to sports activities
By Jorge Lobo Di Palma