VALDOSTA — College classes are back in session with students in all grades excited for the new school year at Valdosta State University.

The administration is starting the new school year with an emphasis on community engagement and the already popular Wild Adventures Theme Park passes.

“VSU is moving forward as a leader in our region with a renewed passion for our students and our connection to our region,” said Rodney Carr, VSU vice president for student success, in a prepared statement. “It is a great time to be a Blazer.”

Seniors claim this time is more bittersweet, though. Chardonay Campbell, a fourth-year English major, said she is going to miss all that VSU has to offer but her next chapter in life as a future law student is just as thrilling.

“When I was a freshman, they were promoting the slogan ‘Home away from home,’” Campbell said. “That’s really want VSU means to me. I’m excited to move on as well. I feel like they’ve given me the tools necessary to continue, so I’m ready.”

For freshmen, there’s an anticipation in the future experiences that are soon to come, but first, they have to navigate their way around a new campus.

“I’m getting to know the classes and what it’s like to be part of Valdosta State,” said Yesha Shah, a first-year business student. “I’m pretty excited. I’ve never been away from home by myself.”

Shah said she has learned the ropes of campus pretty well in just the few days that she’s been here because of programs such as the multicultural achievement program, which helped her and other freshmen become familiar with VSU.

She said she plans to join more clubs and programs such as MAP as the semester progresses.

Sophomores and juniors may not be in a milestone year, but this allows them to stay focused on joining more clubs and focusing on new upper-level courses.

Joshua Henry, a second-year marketing student, said his rollercoaster of a freshman year has made him focus on finding his true interests.

“Going through the first year is more eventful because freshmen have many ups and downs,” Henry said. “When you come back, you’re prepared, though. Getting back into student life is exhilarating because you never know what opportunities are going to hit you.”

He’s not just waiting for opportunities to come to him. Henry said he plans on joining clubs and even starting his own ping pong club with friends.

As students plan and prepare for the semester and year ahead of them, Vincent Miller, VSU vice president of student affairs, said it’s fine to treat the week as a transitional period. The faculty, staff and returning students are here to help those new faces.

“The first day of class brings excitement and nervousness for our students as they navigate a new campus and learn the various expectations of their professors,” Miller said in a prepared statement. “We will spend a lot of time this week providing support and encouragement to ensure every student knows they belong here and can be successful.”

Katelyn Umholtz is a reporter with the Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at (229)244-3400 ext. 1256.