A new academic year often signals the end of summer freedom and the return of school-related dread, yet, this time, the UNLV campus pulses with a different energy. From students to faculty, there’s an unmistakable shared excitement, making this first week of school remarkably unique.
In contrast to prior years, where the beginning of the semester brought weary faces and reluctant returns, there seems to be a fresh sense of enthusiasm this year. It’s more than just a return to routine; it’s a campus-wide celebration of renewal and optimism.
One voice echoing this sentiment is Ben Morse, a lecturer for the School of Journalism & Media Studies, who expressed his surprise at how the first week unfolded. “This is one of the better first weeks I can recall in the six years I’ve been doing this,” Morse stated. “The energy is very high, the faculty seems motivated and the new students in particular are enthusiastic.”
Morse’s observations align with other faculty members who report a heightened sense of purpose and positivity. Teachers are visibly more engaged, welcoming the opportunity to connect with students, both newcomers and returning students alike. There’s a collective eagerness to foster academic and social growth, and it’s showing.
It’s not just faculty members experiencing this energy. Freshman Milla Santos shared her positive take. “The first week of school went really smoothly,” Santos said. “The campus was surprisingly easy to navigate, and I was able to check out Lied Library for the first time. I also really liked the environment of all my courses.”
Santos highlighted the extra effort faculty made to create a warm atmosphere, from free food to student organization promotions, which helped new students feel at ease. Santos’ sentiments reflect a broader trend this year: students are excited to be part of the UNLV community.
Perhaps this renewed enthusiasm stems from UNLV’s resilience and growth following the tragic events of Dec. 6, a difficult time that marked the university’s collective journey through grief and healing. As the campus rebuilds, both physically and emotionally, the commitment to creating a welcoming and thriving academic environment is evident.
Some may argue that this apparent excitement is merely surface-level, a façade that masks the usual apathy students feel after summer break. It’s easy to mistake the energy of the first few days—free food, events, and social gatherings—for genuine enthusiasm when, in reality, students may not be as thrilled as they appear.
However, the sustained positivity observed throughout the first week goes beyond temporary excitement. Faculty and students alike are engaging more deeply in classroom interactions and campus life. Students are eagerly looking for more ways to be involved on campus and connect with their peers. The enthusiasm isn’t just a product of welcome events; it reflects a broader cultural shift within UNLV, where both teachers and students are re-energized by a renewed sense of community and purpose. This year feels like more than just a good start; it feels like the beginning of a great school year.
UNLV has begun the academic year with an energy and excitement that hasn’t been felt in recent memory. As the university emerges stronger from past hardships, the campus is now alive with hope and ambition. This promising start is more than a fleeting moment. It’s the sign of a vibrant year, with students and faculty ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
