KENNESAW, Ga. | Jan 14, 2021

Entering her final semester of college, Ariana Stevenson admits that she took a few things for granted in previous years at Kennesaw State University.

Having overcome the challenge of learning in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, however, she said the spring semester presents one more opportunity to close out her undergraduate career with finesse.

“I am most looking forward to finishing out management classes and enjoying all that comes with being a college student,” said Stevenson, a senior in business administration in the Coles College of Business. “My four years are coming to an end, but I hope to cherish this last semester with the community I have made and enjoy a semi-normal semester.”

This week, Stevenson was joined by her fellow Owls in returning to campus as Kennesaw State kicked off its spring semester. The University is continuing to offer online and hybrid courses as well as in-person, allowing students to interact with faculty members while practicing social distancing.

In what has become tradition at the start of the fall and spring semesters, students were also greeted by KSU’s Week of Welcome, which features both in-person and virtual events including a spring bonfire, a student involvement fair and bingo nights among several other activities. In all, the University has planned more than 2,000 programs and activities throughout the semester centered around enhancing the college experience for KSU students.

Beyond campus activities, many students are eager to return the classroom. History education student Haleigh Monroe said she is most excited about her first classes of the new year.

“I could tell that my professor is excited for the semester and it makes me happy to be back at school at such an odd time,” Monroe said.

Kaylee Polk, who studies political science, said she is most looking forward to conducting original research as part of her Research Methods course, and senior accounting student Taron Ragan is excited to finish out his college career as a first-generation graduate.

“I have met great professors and peers here at Kennesaw State, and I know that I will be blessed to meet others before I cross the finish line,” said Ragan, who has already secured a full-time position with Deloitte. “I want to cherish this semester.”

– Travis Highfield

Photos by David Caselli

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.