Welcome to the fall semester!
There is nothing quite like the start of a new academic year at The University of Alabama. Across campus, new students are beginning their journey, returning students are reconnecting with friends and mentors, and faculty and staff are bringing renewed energy to everything we do. I am glad you are here.
Whether it is your first year at the Capstone or graduation is on the horizon, I hope you know you belong here. You are part of a community that will support you along the way and encourage you to make the most of your Alabama experience.
We have an exciting year ahead as we continue advancing our work as the Future-Ready Flagship. That work belongs to all of us through the goals we pursue, the relationships we build and the contributions we make to this University.
Let’s make it a great semester.
Roll Tide!
– Peter
DEVELOP | Start Strong. Find Your Place.
The first weeks of a new semester are a chance to find your rhythm and discover what UA has to offer. I encourage you to get involved early and try something new.
- Make the most of Weeks of Welcome. Last night’s Script A with the Class of 2030 was an energizing way to start the semester. Join us for activities like First Day UA, Bama Jam and Get on Board Day, to connect with others, find new interests and build community.
- Keep your fall essentials close. Bookmark our fall semester essentials for information about getting around campus, academic resources, safety and support.
- Stay connected and informed. We want you to have important campus information close at hand. Download the UA Safety App for UA Alerts, weather updates, emergency contacts and other safety resources. You can also stream UA Info Radio 92.5 FM through the app — especially helpful during home football weekends and major campus events.
DISCOVER | Explore What’s Possible.
Students, being future-ready means giving you opportunities to stretch your thinking and connect your Alabama education to the world around you.
- Build your AI skills.The UA AI Experience is now open to students, faculty and staff, giving all of us an opportunity to build knowledge and confidence with artificial intelligence. Developed by our Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education, the initiative creates a shared foundation for how we understand, engage with and use AI responsibly. I am proud that Alabama is taking a University-wide approach to preparing our community to use these tools thoughtfully and effectively.
- Take on a global challenge. UA is one of only six American universities selected for the inaugural cohort of the Entente Cordiale Challenge. Students from any major or degree level can apply for this international opportunity focused on AI, power and ethics. Applications open soon, and I hope many of you will take on the challenge.
SERVE | Celebrate the People of Alabama.
Our people give us plenty of reasons to be proud.
- Honor dedicated service. This summer, we recognized 711 UA employees from every division, college and school for service milestones. I am grateful for the years, and in some cases decades, they have invested in our students and University.
- Cheer on the Capstone. Alabama Adapted Athletics student-athletes shined at the U.S. Para Track and Field National Championships. Dani Kanas won gold and silver, Talan Smith earned bronze, and freshman Daniel Figueroa competed in two events. We are proud of their accomplishments and of all our student-athletes who represent Alabama with distinction.
STEWARD | Boldly Build Bama.
Our campus continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our community, reflecting our commitment to supporting student success.
- See what’s taking shape. This summer, teams across campus made significant progress on projects including the Student Well-Being Hub, safety enhancements on the Quad, the transformation of Farrah Hall for the School of Leadership and Policy, and the Smith Family Center for the Performing Arts.
Voices of UA
“The University’s commitment to expanding advising resources will create a more intentional and impactful academic experience for students. It is important that UA continues to connect students to the support and information needed to thrive in the classroom.”
Samantha Simmons, SGA President
This fall, we begin the first phase of a three-year initiative to strengthen academic advising, including adding 49 professional advisors across the University. It is an important investment in our students, giving them more personalized guidance and support.