Ever since the Quaker Oats Man made his first appearance in 1877, mascots have been branding products and businesses of all types. Mascots are one of the most classic forms of branding and remain relevant today, promoting products and slinging slogans with continual fervor. But why do so many different organizations choose mascots as the center of their brand strategies? It’s all about recognition and sociability- making them the perfect ambassadors for your college or university.
Living away from home for the first time while attempting to sort out a career path often leaves new students feeling lost. When alumni recall their college mascots, however, they’re likely to say, “We were the…” rather than, “Our mascot was…” It’s mascot psychology; on some level, they identify with the mascot. They feel like part of its community because it’s the one thing they shared with every other student. This is the main benefit of college mascots – they create that sense of belonging students crave, and it makes them feel at home.