First day of classes underway at UNL

Today was the first day of college for a new class of Freshman at UNL.

Over 26,000 students were back on campus in Lincoln today.

The start of a new school year is an exciting and nerve wracking time, especially for freshman.

"I was really nervous but then today I was like yeah, this is kind of like high school again, especially for freshman year, everyone is going to be really nice," said Taylor Oliva, Freshman at UNL.

Last Friday, before classes got underway, the incoming class of 2022 participated in the annual tunnel walk and class picture on the "N" at midfield of memorial stadium.

Chancellor Ronnie green gave a welcoming address to the students on the jumbo tron, welcoming them to the university.

"It’s an invigorating and amazing time to be here at Nebraska. We’re about to launch into a new season season of teaching, learning and discovery. As we kick off this academic year I want to extend a special welcome to you, especially if this is your very first semester on our campus."

Last year there were nearly 5,000 freshman enrolled at UNL.

These new students are being challenged like never before, and performing well requires more than just showing up for class.

Taylor Oliva, an aspiring architecture major, knows she needs to be alert at all times.

"Mostly just paying attention in class, that’s my biggest problem if I don’t pay attention I won’t get the information at all but as long as I’m listening to the teacher the whole time I can understand everything perfectly."

This school year is also a historic time for the University…

"This coming February, we will celebrate 150 years since our founding in 1869," said Chancellor Green.

It may have been a dreary and rainy start to the fall semester, but having the students back on campus is always an exciting time for Lincoln, Nebraska.

"We’re here to do big things, and that’s exciting for all of us in the Nebraska family. Good luck to all of you and go big red," said Chancellor Green.