New Beginnings
The University of Massachusetts Amherst campus has sprung to life over the past several days, with thousands of students arriving for the fall 2021 semester. Many students are returning to campus after a long hiatus while others are experiencing campus life for the first time. "Fall Welcome," which kicked off on August 27, has offered students a plethora of opportunities to explore the campus and connect with peers.
"In these early weeks of the semester, we really encourage students to get involved in campus life beyond academics. Returning to the campus community for in-person learning, events, and programming may feel challenging or overwhelming after the relative isolation during COVID-19, but it's important to remember that everyone is in the same boat," says Pete Smith, director of student life communications and professional development. "We know that students who forge social connections and find community through participation in clubs, events, and activities are more likely to be happy and successful at UMass."
Joining the UMass community for the first time this fall are approximately 4,900 first-year students and 1,200 new transfer students. The university received a record 42,110 applications for this year's entering class. The first-year class has an outstanding academic profile and represents the most diverse class in the university's history. Approximately 69 percent of the class, or 3,380 first-year students, comes from Massachusetts. The remaining 1,250 out-of-state students includes 420 international students. Read more about the newest members of the UMass community in this news article.
Rolling onto Campus
Experience the sights and sounds of fall move in, which took place August 25–31.
On social media, students shared their hopes for the academic year ahead and all the aspects of campus life they were most looking forward to.
