AAU students returned to campus Monday, filling the courtyard with chatter as some reconnected with friends while others navigated their first day of university life.
On a sunny fall afternoon, students gathered at picnic tables as school officials guided newcomers to classrooms and cafe staff rushed to serve food and coffee.
“I’m ready to get my routine back and feel productive,” said Clara MacPherson, a third-year student. “This is my last year, and I want to finish strong.”
Class timings are earlier than last year to allow longer breaks between classes, giving students more time to connect and build community.
For exchange students, the first day brought both excitement and challenges.
“It has been a smooth transition. There are signs on the walls that helped a lot, so I wasn’t too lost,” said Valentina Perez, an exchange student from Mexico. She added that many classmates struggled to find rooms near the library.
Other students welcomed the return to structure after a long summer.
“I’m ready to lock in,” said Emma Cote, a third-year student. “I’ve been really aimless all summer. I’m ready to have routine again.”
