BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Following weeks of anticipation, classes are back in session at Western Kentucky University. 

What You Need To Know

  • Classes are back in session at Western Kentucky University 

  • This year's student population is around 16,000, a number the school said could fluctuate over the coming weeks 

  • New students said they're excited as ever to be on campus and connect with others

  • Many organizations are hosting activities to help others connect and alleviate stress 

“I was, like, counting down the days," said Eva Borchardt, freshman. "I was constantly checking my phone and (was) like, ‘Oh, my gosh; I have one more day, two more days. I have one more week, mom.'”

New students said they're excited as ever to be on campus and connect with others. 

“I’ve been looking forward to college since I was really little," said Bella Johnson, freshman. "I’m out of state, so it’s really exciting being in a new place, with new people.”

This year's enrollment is around 16,000, mirroring last year’s student population, said Jace Lux, WKU director of media relations. He added that number could increase as the year continues. 

“Things will fluctuate in the beginning of the semester," Lux said. "We’ll have students that enroll late, so we’ll watch those numbers closely.”

While the new year can be stressful for some, many organizations are hosting activities to make sure incoming students have the best start possible. 

“I love art and everything; my high school didn’t have much in the art department, so I’m excited to get better at it," Johnson said. 

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