As students trekked from the Student Center Complex through the breezeways and across the University Center Rock Plaza toward classrooms and labs, one thing was clear—the new academic year is in full swing.
Welcome back ’Canes. Let’s make this a great year. 🙌
— University of Miami (@univmiami) August 23, 2021
President @julio_frenk welcomes the #umiami community for the start of the Fall 2021 semester. Watch the full message or read the transcript at https://t.co/7H7AO4cxxG pic.twitter.com/zhujBgnXeW
We asked some students to reflect on how it felt to be back on campus. The following is what they shared.
Anamarie Del Amo, a senior from Miami studying business law
“The first day has been great. I'm really excited to be back on campus—it’s a huge switch from being online. I’m most excited about being a part of the activities and being on campus.”
Abudllah Abouradi, a sophomore studying biochemistry
“It’s exciting. I’m looking forward to using this year to work on my resume and prepare it for professional schools moving forward.”
Collin Miller, a junior from Glen Ridge, New Jersey studying biology
“So far, so good. It’s great to be back on campus and catch up with friends I haven't seen in a while. I’d say I’m looking forward to football most this year.”
David Raez, a junior from Miami studying history and psychology
“It’s been really nice being back on campus after the past year. I’m looking forward to the football season. I like to barbecue outside the game with my friends. I’m also looking forward to Homecoming Week because I love taking part in Hurricane Howl, O-Cheer, and the other things. I’m also really excited because I had friends who are now sophomores that didn’t get a chance to really experience a full UM [last year].”
Biandie Trente Et Un, a first-year student from Boston studying biochemistry
“I’m looking forward to making new friends. The first day hasn’t been too bad. Everything’s easy to find. Coming here [from Boston] is a new experience and a new vibe.”
Franco Terrero, a senior studying neuroscience and public health
“It’s exciting to be back, but it feels kind of strange because I'm so used to online classes now. It’s like starting kindergarten again. I’m looking forward to the football games and Homecoming. I really missed Homecoming because it’s so lively normally, but last year it was so dead.”
Hugo Mijares-Pracho, a junior from Miami studying health sciences and theater
“[The first day back] has been fantastic. I love to see the campus so lively again. It's very refreshing and much needed. I’m so excited for Homecoming, it’s my all-time favorite UM festivity.”
Tamia McLean, a sophomore from Miramar, Florida studying marketing
“I’m looking forward to . . . meeting my professors and meeting new people.”
