Most people think of January as the beginning of a new year. But, in academia, the new year often begins in late August/early September when the campus comes back to life with the energy of new and returning students.

With the new academic year comes a variety of fresh starts. For incoming students, it is the beginning of the next chapter in their lives. Increased rigor in their studies requires new habits and levels of commitment and determination. Returning students begin the process of thinking and preparing for what comes next after receiving their masters in less than a year. And for all students, new relationships are formed among their peers and faculty and staff.

New beginnings of another academic year are also present for faculty and staff. Faculty often spend their summers refining their courses with fresh ideas and approaches. Staff joins the faculty in preparing to welcome new students to the program. Together they implement adjustments to strengthen the program to give all students the best experience possible.

For all of us, approaching a new year should be done with the excited expectation of rewarding experiences, meaningful relationships, and personal growth. Whatever our goals are for the new year, our attitude contributes to the success of when and how we reach our goals. As Alex Morritt said in the Impromptu Scribe, “New Year – a new chapter, new verse, or just the same old story? Ultimately we write it. The choice is ours.”

Happy New Year!!