In this, my second year teaching at Monroe County Community College, I’ve really noticed the extra energy on the first days of class.
Last fall, I suppose I was too new, too worried about not screwing up my first lectures, to notice.
But Thursday, the first day of fall semester, was special. And today, as the first full week begins, much of the sense of wonder is still here.
All the cliches about new beginnings seem to be in place. There really is a feeling of freshness, of high hopes and infinite possibilities.
The carefully nurtured cynicism that seems to take over many students hasn’t kicked in yet. Every face in my classes seems to be focused, eagerly hanging on each word.
Hallways between classes are buzzing, with high fives and hugs as students reconnect following the summer break.
Even some of the dourest faculty members are smiling.
MCCC is friendly all year. It’s the kind of place where people go out of their way to be kind. A student who looks lost is quickly noticed and given a helping hand.
But these first few days are special, even by MCCC standards.
Bottom line: Summer break is great, but so is getting back to school.