With residence hall move-in completed last week and the excitement of the Lander Launch activities now fading into memories, the new semester officially began at Lander University on Monday, August 19 with the first day of classes.
The campus is alive again, as both new and returning students fill the halls and common areas with a blend of excitement and anticipation for the 2024 fall semester.
For freshmen, it’s a time of transition - filled with both the thrill of new-found independence and the challenges of adapting to a new and unfamiliar academic environment.
Krystal Waldo and McKayla Rushton, both freshmen from Johnston and majoring in nursing, began their first day with English and chemistry classes. “Other than going to the wrong room for my first class, it went pretty well,” Waldo said.
“The first day wasn’t as stressful as I thought it would be,” Rushton added. Both students said they are ready for the challenges of college classes and are excited about the fall semester.
For returning students, the fall semester represents a continuation of their academic journey, with new challenges and opportunities to further their goals.
Ava Jones, a senior psychology major from Spartanburg, sees her goal of earning her degree getting closer to reality. “My last year as an undergrad at Lander is now underway,” Jones remarked. “I am excited to be back on campus to see my friends and professors that have been wonderful mentors. I also am happy to see my sorority sisters and ready for this week’s sorority activities.” Jones plans on pursuing her master’s in counseling after completing her degree in psychology.
Caroline Myrick, a sophomore business major from Lexington, started her day with two business classes and then enjoyed lunch with friends. “I am really happy to be back in class and with my friends,” Myrick said.
One of Myrick’s dining companions, Vivian LeBron, said she was on campus bright and early for a microbiology class. LeBron, a sophomore from Blythewood is majoring in nursing.
Beyond academics, the start of the semester also signals the revival of campus life, with clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities launching their programs and recruitment drives, inviting students to engage and connect outside the classroom.
To view a photo gallery of first week activities at Lander University, go online to www.lander.edu/photos.