The anticipation and excitement were palpable this week as Collin College welcomed students back to campus for the first week of the new academic year. The campuses, usually tranquil spaces during the summer break, came alive with the buzz of students reuniting, making new friends, and embarking on their educational journeys.
The first week of classes featured a variety of events and activities designed to engage students and help them settle into the academic routine. The different campuses held cookouts and social gatherings where curious students could ask questions about the college and their respective campuses. The campus bookstores witnessed a steady stream of students purchasing textbooks, notebooks, and other essentials for the semester.
Among the new students was Kiersten Fortelny, who graduated from Reedy High School in Frisco in May. She said it was her first time setting foot on the Frisco Campus.
“The first day has been good, and it’s a lot less confusing now that I’m actually on campus,” Fortelny said. “It’s really nice, and everyone has been so helpful. I’m looking forward to the classes and joining a student group.”
For freshman Tyler Thomas, it was also his first time at the Plano Campus. He said he spent time walking the building to get a good feel for the campus.
“I’m now a college student, and this is a new experience,” said Thomas, who plans to pursue an EMT degree. “It has a different feel from high school because you get to pick what you want, and there are a lot of options.”
On the McKinney Campus, Jada Venters returned to school after being in the workforce for several years.
“I’m looking forward to the education, a new routine, and organization, and I know Collin can give me that,” she said. “I felt a bit old at first, but I really love how the professors have all made me feel welcomed. I’m really excited to get started. It’s never too late to go to college.”
As the week progressed, students flowed into classrooms, laboratories, and discussion groups, officially marking the start of their academic journeys. The energy on the campuses reflected a collective determination to make the most of the opportunities ahead, and the college staff worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth transition into the new semester.
With a diverse range of majors and programs, dedicated faculty, and campuses bustling with student activities, the college community is poised for yet another year of growth and achievement.