Mike Drop: He was Part of LSU's Biggest Secret; Now He's Graduating
May 15, 2026
For two years, one LSU student was Mike the Tiger, embodying the university's most beloved tradition. This week, he graduates and looks back on the role, the relationships, and the school that changed his life.
Landon Terro and Mike the Tiger look out onto Tiger Stadium field together.
The crowd can usually feel his presence before he even appears.
On game days in Death Valley, LSU fans wait for photos while kids sit on shoulders pointing toward the tunnel, hoping to catch a glimpse of Mike the Tiger. The second he steps into view, the energy is instantly electric.
To LSU fans, Mike is a tradition. Spirit. Connection. An icon woven into some of the university’s biggest and best moments.
What most people never see is the student inside the suit.
Behind the oversized head, the giant paws, and one of LSU’s most renowned traditions
is a student balancing classes, internships, leadership roles, appearances, and the
responsibility of representing the university everywhere he goes. Now, as graduation
approaches, one of the students behind Mike is reflecting on the role that not only
shaped his college experience but also changed the trajectory of his life.
For LSU senior Landon Terro, serving as Mike the Tiger for the last two years became
far more than a performance role. The Lafayette native and sport administration major
spent his time at LSU balancing academics, leadership positions, internships, and
national championships in speech and debate.
Landon Terro poses with Mike the Tiger in front of Tiger Stadium
Now, as he prepares to graduate and continue at LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center pursuing a JD/MBA, Terro is reflecting on the experiences, relationships, and lessons he’ll carry with him long after the suit comes off.
Becoming Mike
Terro, as Mike the Tiger, performs during a collegiate cheer and mascot competition appearance.
What first inspired you to become Mike the Tiger?
“I got introduced to Team Mike through my work under Leighann Westfall during my sophomore year. That gave me a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Mike the Tiger, and I fell in love with the idea of making people’s day while getting to be a giant goofball in the process.”
Do you remember the first time you put on the suit?
“A ginormous head with little to no vision, Shaq-sized feet, a tail, and four fingers took some getting used to. But once I got to my first event, everything clicked. I finally felt comfortable enough to let loose, embrace the role, and become the top cat at the function.”
What did it feel like knowing you would represent LSU in such a visible way while remaining anonymous?
“People came to see Mike, not me. If I could play even a small role in making someone’s interaction with Mike special, then I felt like I was doing my job. I love LSU deeply, and I just wanted to represent the university in the best way I could.”
Life Outside the Suit
Landon Terro poses with his girlfriend on the field at Alex Box Stadium alongside Mike the Tiger during a graduation photo session.
What does your life look like outside of being Mike?
“I spend a lot of time with my family, girlfriend, and close friends. I enjoy working out, golfing, attempting to cook, and reading.”
“I recently wrapped up an 11-year speech and debate career and now I help coach on the side. I also serve as a senior counselor for Louisiana Boys State, Louisiana’s premier leadership development program.”
How are you involved on campus besides Team Mike?
“For the last four years, I’ve competed for LSU Speech and Debate, bringing home local and national championships. I’ve also worked as an intern for the LSU Athletics Business Office and as an event specialist for Tiger Athletic Foundation.”
What kind of work do you hope to do after LSU?
“After graduating, I’ll be heading right back to LSU in the fall as a 1L at the Paul M. Hebert Law Center pursuing a JD/MBA joint degree. Long term, I’d love to work in sports law, but I’m also open to wherever life takes me.”
The Responsibility of Mike
Mike the Tiger performs during a collegiate cheer and mascot competition.
How would you describe the responsibility that comes with being Mike?
“Responsibility is the name of the game. As Mike, we have a responsibility to spread joy everywhere we go and do it in an intentional manner. You never know when it’ll be someone’s first time meeting Mike, so it’s our job to make that experience unforgettable.”
What have you learned about creating joy for other people?
“Creating joy for others is one of the most powerful things we can do. Having a platform like Mike to actively spread joy, without any personal recognition attached to it, has been incredibly meaningful. Whether it was someone going through a difficult time or just someone needing a laugh on a random day, being able to positively impact people through this role made everything worth it.”
Team Mike
What’s the relationship like between the students who are also part of Team Mike?
“Literal family. Whether it’s workouts, appearances, brainstorming ideas in the locker room, or just hanging out, we spend a ton of time together.
What’s one thing only another Mike would understand?
“Nobody understands how expensive detergent and dryer sheets become until they’ve washed mascot gear constantly.”
LSU Changed My Life
If you could describe your LSU experience in one word, what would it be?
“ LSU changed my life in ways I never could’ve imagined, and I’ll always be grateful for that. ”
“Life-changing. My first semester at LSU was honestly brutal. I was pursuing a major I didn’t care about, and I kept myself isolated from campus life. But during that winter break, everything shifted. I reconnected with my family, rediscovered my faith, and made the decision to fully embrace everything LSU had to offer. From there, I got involved, found lifelong connections, changed to the major that completely altered the trajectory of my future, and created memories I’ll carry forever. LSU changed my life in ways I never could’ve imagined, and I’ll always be grateful for that.”