Mavericks Return as UNO Welcomes Back During Move-In Weekend

New Beginnings at the University of Nebraska at Omaha

As the academic year kicks off, the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) welcomes students back to campus. For many, this marks the start of a new chapter filled with opportunities and growth. The Scott campus near Aksarben Village has become a hub of activity as new and returning students settle into their dorms.

Assistant Property Manager Adam Wick shared insights about the move-in process. “We moved in Scott’s Residents Hall yesterday,” he said. “Today we are moving in Scott Court, Scott Village, and Scott Crossing. In total, we are going to move in about a thousand students this weekend.” This influx of students highlights the university’s growing appeal and its commitment to providing a supportive living environment.

Wick noted that there is an increase in returning students this year. Many of these students are finding value in the affordability of on-campus housing. “We make sure it is extremely affordable for our students to live on campus,” he explained. “This is something you would not typically see at most traditional large universities. At UNO, every student has their own individual bedroom, which is a big draw for us.”

Returning sophomore Jo McPhaull understands the challenges of balancing work and school. This semester, she is serving as a resident assistant, a role that offers both financial and personal benefits. “I am fortunate enough to have my dorm paid for, but I am also able to work with students,” she said. “This experience helps me integrate into the community and gain valuable workforce skills. It's like being part of a small business where you learn how to interact with people and understand what it means to be part of an organization.”

For many young adults, starting college can be overwhelming, especially when they are living away from home for the first time. Returning sophomore Nicholas Camarena experienced this transition last year when he moved from South Sioux City, Nebraska. “Moving from a small town to a big city was really concerning because I didn’t know anyone here,” he recalled. However, the support from his resident assistant made the transition easier. Now, he is paying it forward by stepping into a similar role. “She became a big figure for me, so I wanted to create that same sense of community for others.”

Freshman Rylee Ackerson is one of the new Mavs this year. She traveled almost two hours from Clarks, Nebraska, to continue her education. Rylee is studying medical imaging, specifically ultrasound, and is excited about the opportunities ahead. “I am so glad I decided to go to the suites. It will help me prepare for my future as I move into my own apartment,” she said. “I’m excited and ready to experience life on my own for the first time.”

The university is set to celebrate Welcome Week next Sunday, a special event for all students on campus. Classes officially begin on Monday, marking the start of a new academic journey for everyone involved. As students settle in and embrace their new surroundings, the energy and enthusiasm on campus are palpable.