Welcome, students; enjoy Cape, study hard, be safe

Monday was the first day of classes at Southeast Missouri State University for more than 11,000 students.

The city takes on a different feel as the first semester gets underway. Streets and parks are busier. Stores and shops are fuller. Student life is very much a part of our city's vibrancy.

For many students, this is the first foray into adulthood, the first time they've lived apart from loved ones. For others, this academic year symbolizes the final stretch in obtaining their degrees.

Many are somewhere in the middle -- not exactly starry-eyed, nervous freshmen, but still whittling away at the courses and activities that will bring them, eventually, to commencement and the real world.

It's heady stuff for all concerned.

So, for those college students out there, we welcome each of you to campus and to our city, whether this is your first time among us or you're returning from a summer at home. We are proud and happy to have you as you work toward your educational goals. Next, never lose sight of why you are here and what you intend to accomplish. Let your goals and dreams inform your decisions every day.

Have fun, study hard, be safe. Respect your professors, and value the education you're receiving. Make good choices. Be courteous to your neighbors. Extend a helping hand when and where needed. Enjoy this time in your lives. It goes by quickly.

Above all, have a safe and productive year, students.