People and Community University

Students share their excitement about being back on campus

The University welcomed students and faculty and staff members for the first day of fall semester classes on Monday. And a few students shared their zeal and anticipation for upcoming events.
A composite of students on the first day of the Fall 2021 semester
Classes for the 2021-2022 academic year began on Monday, Aug. 23. Photos: Jenny Hudak/University of Miami

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.

We asked some students to reflect on how it felt to be back on campus. The following is what they shared.


Anamarie Del MaoAnamarie 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.”


Abdullah AbouradiAbudllah 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 MillerCollin 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 RaezDavid 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].”


Eiandie TrenteetunBiandie 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 TerreroFranco 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-PrachoHugo 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 McLenTamia McLean, a sophomore from Miramar, Florida studying marketing

“I’m looking forward to . . . meeting my professors and meeting new people.”


Top