Courtesy Photo Alpena Community College students gather at College Park apartments during move-in festivities.

ALPENA — Dropping off your students for their first year at college can be an emotional experience — parents are experiencing that feeling across the U.S., including in Alpena.

Students moved into the College Park apartments at Alpena Community College on Thursday, beginning the semester with a weekend packed with activities.

Lumberjack Launchpad, the college’s welcome weekend, aims to give students the opportunity to make friends, explore campus and Alpena, and learn everything they need to know to successfully complete the first semester, according to a post on their Facebook page.

In between meetings about student financial literacy, safety training, and other topics, students can attend events such as a country-themed barbecue, a wellness walk, water adventures, a bike tour, and chalk the walk.

“Move-in week is here at Alpena Community College,” the college posted on their Facebook page. “Our Lumberjacks are settling into campus life and kicking things off with Lumberjack Launchpad — a chance to meet new friends, explore college resources, and get a head start on the semester. From icebreakers to insider tips on navigating college, it’s all about starting strong and building connections. Welcome to ACC — you belong here, and we’re so excited to see what you’ll accomplish!”

Earlier this week, local students and commuters had orientation, met their advisors, and began gearing up for the school year, according to the ACC Facebook page.

“It’s a great time of the year, students coming back to classes,” ACC President Don MacMaster said. “It’s the cycle of what we do … It’s good to have them come back.”

Reagan Voetberg can be reached at 989-358-5683 or rvoetberg@TheAlpenaNews.com.