Fresh minds, rested bodies and optimistic faces are just a few things that the professors at Nicholls State University look forward to at the start of every school year.

Students from near and far started making their way back to campus this weekend for a new semester starting on Aug. 17. Just like students, professors have to get back into the normal swing of things.

“The new school year always brings a new level of excitement and energy back to the campus,” Michael Bartnik, assistant professor of music, said. “It was great driving through campus this weekend and already seeing so much activity.”

Traveling, relaxing, renovating and getting the opportunity to cook an actual meal are some of the ways professors enjoy their summer breaks.

“Teaching keeps me busy 24/7 during the school year, so the only time I have for research and house projects is in the summer,” Todd Kennedy, assistant professor of English, said. “There is never enough summer to finish everything I need to do before the crazy, hectic life of teaching starts again.”

This does not mean professors do not look forward to seeing all their new and returning students.

“I look forward to working with returning students again, while also having the opportunity to meet incoming freshmen and new students in my courses,” Bartnik said.

Not only do professors look forward to teaching and seeing all of their students, they also enjoy all the new supplies and equipment they receive at the start of the semester.

“Since I was a child, I’ve always been happy to see new school supplies such as new notebooks, new pencils, new pens and new textbooks,” Tiffany Duet, English instructor, said.

However, there are a couple of situations that professors do not appreciate or consider their pet peeves.

“If you don’t understand something, are confused about expectations or are overwhelmed and need an extension, I can help with pretty much any of those things. Students too often run and hide. That doesn’t leave me a lot of options,” Kennedy said.

Professors also want their students to come to class eager to learn with no distractions going on around them.

“Students should attend class prepared and with an open mind,” Duet said. “And also, don’t text during class.”