The first week of the semester has kicked off, providing both students and faculty with new goals, hopes and obstacles.

Moorpark College President Luis Sanchez welcomed all students and provided words of encouragement for the new year.

“Welcome to the fourth best community college in the nation,” Sanchez said. “I think you’re going to find that every person on this campus, the employees who work here and the current students, are really friendly and want you to succeed.”

Although he admits college can be intimidating at first, he advises students to make use of the resources provided. This includes counseling and involvement in student life and organizations.

“I would be hard pressed to find anybody who wouldn’t go out of their way to help you,” Sanchez said.

Student input was a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially in regard to classes.

Frank Cuentas, a 30-year-old nursing major, was ready to kick off the semester.

“I don’t have first day jitters,” Cuentas said. “I’m excited for this semester because I get to apply to the four-year universities I’ve dreamed of attending.”

Bailey Madigan, a first-year student interested in animal science and animation, hopes to build on her love of art.

“I just really like to draw so I figured animation would be cool,” Madigan said.

For others, like 17-year-old Andrea Esparza, the first week was a source of anxiety.

“A new school is also hard because you don’t know who’s in your class,” Esparza said.

However, experienced students, such as Alex Kocis, are evidence that these obstacles can be overcome. After some deliberation, the 20-year-old physics major is confident in his path.

“It has taken me a while,” said Kocis. “I finally decided my major in the spring semester of this year.”

The first weeks of a semester can be hard but it will be worth it, believes President Sanchez.

“We look forward to having you let us help you achieve your success,” Sanchez said.

Writers who contributed to this story: Nikolas Samuels, Nickolas Gurrola, Kenneth Valentine, Frank Ralph, Ivan Corona, Jessica Frantzides