Thousands of college students moved into residence halls at the University of South Alabama and the University of Mobile on Friday, marking the start of the fall semester at both institutions. Cars lined the streets as families hauled boxes onto campuses across the city.
The University of South Alabama reported a record number of students living on campus to start the year, with more than 3,500 students in residence halls. “You know, we have more students living on campus this fall. More than 3,500 students living on campus this fall than ever in the history of the university,” said Andy Kent, executive vice president and provost at the University of South Alabama. “And that just brings a new vibe, a new feeling, a new energy that we just are so excited, it sets the tone for the rest of the year.”
The University of Mobile also reported strong enrollment, with residence halls filled to capacity for the second consecutive year and a 6% increase in overall enrollment for the fall. University of Mobile President Dr. Charles Smith said he hopes students use the start of the semester to build lasting connections. “Yeah, one of the things I want to tell students is just to relax,” Smith said. “This is a season designed for you to figure out what’s next for you, for you to make friends, to build community.”
Incoming students said the move-in process went smoothly. “We had so much help. All of the team was helping us move in, so I don’t think it took more than 15 minutes to get everything in here,” said Rowan Lehr, a student at the University of Mobile. “I’ve just felt so known being here, and so I’m excited to be in a bigger group of people that I can get to know.”