Auburn University began its 169th year of classes on Aug. 18. Established in 1856, Auburn has served as a place of higher education for countless generations of students. Time has created differences between the generations, but they all had one thing in common: hopefulness for the upcoming school year. This year, Auburn students are looking forward to many activities, from spending time with loved ones to establishing routines to participating in various student organizations.
A point of anticipation for students this year is the idea of establishing a routine. With the school year just beginning, many are eager to create and adjust to a specific schedule for both their academic and personal lives.
“I’m looking forward to getting a routine down and getting a little further into my classes, because it’s definitely getting more major-specific,” said Molly Head, sophomore in genetics.
Head is quite involved on campus as a member of several organizations, including University Program Council, a Panhellenic sorority and a tennis club. As Auburn’s fall semester has begun, many students, like Head, believe establishing a routine is a vital step for success during the school year.
In addition to their academic responsibilities, students are also becoming involved in extracurricular clubs and programs. For many, extracurriculars are a break from academics, a way to meet new people and an avenue to indulge in interests that may not be given attention in the classroom.
One of several students looking forward to their involvement is Patrick Seymore, sophomore in hospitality management. Seymore is a member of both the Theme Park Engineering and Design Club and War Eagle Motorsports.
“I’m looking forward to opportunities through those organizations. We have a lot of exciting events coming up,” Seymore said.
Student organizations host many recreational and educational events, which provide members with fun and diverse activities. A majority of the student body participates in a club, whether academic or not. According to Auburn Student Involvement, during the 2024-2025 academic year, nearly 70% of students were members of at least one student organization or attended at least one event hosted by an organization. Since extracurricular events are the primary way to get involved on campus, many students, like Seymore, are excited to attend events that occur in the first few weeks.
Auburn Athletics is also an iconic part of campus culture, and many students look forward to sports. Whether it is football, baseball or another sport, athletic events can help students decompress, socialize and spend time with fellow members of the Auburn Family.
According to Hannah Schmucker, senior in computer science, sporting events are a way to see her family and take breaks from academics.
“It’s nice to use the event to do different things outside of school that keep me sane,” Schmucker said.
Auburn is a place for students with diverse lifestyles. No two students hold the exact same expectations for the school year. This year, students are looking forward to many different aspects of the school year, whether it is Auburn sports, extracurricular activities or something entirely unique.
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Lorelei Young, sophomore majoring in English language arts education, is from Columbiana, Alabama. She has been with The Auburn Plainsman since the fall of 2025.
