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Exciting journey: Two weeks down

Sept. 9, 2025

Welcome to Week 3!

Can you believe it? Two weeks ago, you kicked off the exciting journey of the fall semester in 2025! Whether you’re new to campus or returning, you’ve taken your first steps on a fresh adventure, meeting new faces and tackling new challenges. In just two short weeks, the leaves will have mostly fallen, and those chilly nights will become part of your routine. Time really does fly, doesn’t it? You're doing an amazing job!

You're not just diving into your studies, mastering new subjects, and soaking up information – you’re also getting to know a world filled with new names, faces, systems, and spaces. Every day, you're creating connections with people you see in class, on Zoom, or in discussion boards. Those familiar faces are turning into companions as you all journey together.

Take a moment to think about the community around you. Are you making the most of your chance to connect with your fellow travelers? Building those friendships now can really enhance your experience here. So, don’t hesitate! Dive into the social opportunities this semester brings. Chat with classmates, uncover their stories, and think about starting or joining a study group or club. Cultivating these connections will add so much to your experience and offer valuable support through the next 14 weeks. Looking back in a few years, it’ll be these friendships that you’ll cherish the most!

Here are some fun ideas for you: Have you been getting involved in student activities and other opportunities? If you haven’t checked it out yet, take a look at the ! Just log in with your university credentials to find a ton of exciting events and activities waiting for you. If you prefer to keep it mobile, grab the CampusGroups app (available on and ) and log in!

Once again, Nanook Traditions kicks off the school year with Starvation Gulch on Sept. 11-13. The bonfires have been a symbol of the passing of the torch of knowledge to our new students since 1923. We welcome back all our students and hope they all have a grand year. Enjoy the biggest bonfires you will ever see!

You can find ²ÝÁñÉçÇø student jobs at the website. There are currently over 60 positions open just at our ²ÝÁñÉçÇø campus, so you’re sure to find something that fits your interests! From working as a Community Service Officer to embodying Nook, our beloved mascot, to helping out in the Pub, there are plenty of options to explore!

Speaking of jobs, don’t forget about Handshake, our official job/internship portal. Another great way to connect with our community is by getting a job! Attend our on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Wood Center. We have over 70 employers registered to table at the event. It's packed with opportunities from both internal and external employers. Once you fill out your career interests, you’ll receive personalized job recommendations and even messages from employers who are eager to connect with students like you. Did you know that 80% of students with a complete Handshake profile get contacted by employers? Plus, you’ll find information about upcoming career services events there! Get started by activating your account at using your ²ÝÁñÉçÇø login info, and don’t forget to download the Handshake app (available on and ) for the latest job alerts and events. If you need support with Handshake, the ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Career Services website is here for you!

This week, we’re trying this new format in the Student Cornerstone newsletter. Let me know what you think – I’d love to hear any thoughts or ideas you have, please drop me an email at obguthrie@alaska.edu.

I wish you a fantastic third week and a great (safe!) time at Starvation Gulch!

— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management