BUFFALO, N.Y. — ​Thursday marked Move-In Day at Buffalo State College for many students excited to finally meet in person. About 1,400 first year students will enroll at Buffalo State this fall, and more than 1,700 students will live on campus. This includes more than 900 first year students.

A number of COVID-19 precautions are being taken, including mandatory vaccinations and the wearing of masks while indoors.

“I am excited to move in. I was nervous at first, but I’m excited now," says Buffalo State freshman Richie Miller.

He is beginning his first year at Buffalo State and looking forward to his first day of in-person classes. He was among other freshmen participating in Move-In Day.

“In terms of COVID, they’re being really safe and taking the right precautions," adds Miller.

Photo: Spectrum News 1​

“I think it’s so much excitement for our students. They have been really hungering for that in person connection," says Kate Conway-Turner, Buffalo State President.

Lexi Cummings, a soccer team captain, was one of the older students helping with move-in. She agrees with President Conway-Turner’s sentiment.

“It’s being in person, talking with people, meeting people…it’s definitely what everybody’s looking for," explains Cummings. 

As a criminal justice major, Cummings found it difficult to study remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“For me, my classes are kind of small once you get into your major, so your professor knows you and you connect with each other. If you have any issues, they know what’s going on," says Cummings. 

She says that building upon those connections while working remotely was a challenge, which is why she’s grateful to return to in-person learning. She, like Darren Thompson, the football team captain, wants to help other first-year students smoothly make that transition.

“I think it really means a lot to them. They’re really happy to be here, especially since they can get the college experience and they can also be outside," says Thompson.

Fall semester begins on Monday, August 30.