New Semester, Who Dis? Huskies Return to Campus

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New Semester, Who Dis? Huskies Return to Campus

September 2, 2026

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by Benjamin Joseph

The first day of the fall semester at the University of Southern Maine means new schedules, first-day ’fits and a whole lot of caffeine. We caught up with students between classes for a quick check on the first-day vibes.

From left: Milos Nevajdic ‘30 jazz studies, Zachary Patti ‘30 business management, Hannah Ober ‘30 clarinet performance, Nessa Sammuel ‘30 music performance

From left: Milos Nevajdic, Zachary Patti, Hannah Ober, Nessa Sammuel

What’s your drink of choice?

Milos Nevajdic ’30, jazz studies: “Iced anything if I’m getting a drink and I need to go to class. But if I’m enjoying a good coffee, I want it hot.”

Zachary Patti ’30, business management: “I’m an iced coffee drinker. No hot coffee for me.”

Hannah Ober ’30, clarinet performance: “I prefer iced coffee. My go-to is a nice mocha latte.”

Nessa Sammuel ’30, music performance: “Jasmine tea with honey and oat milk.”

What’s one word to describe today?

Keegan Brown, student
Keegan Brown ’30, public health: “Exciting.”
Nessa Sammuel, student.
Nessa: “Anticipation.”

Q:

Are you nervous, excited, or both?

A:

Keegan: “It was my first time driving in the city, the day before classes, so I was nervous. I didn’t crash and the bumper’s still on, so we’re doing good.”

A:

Maya Jamerson-Martin ’29, accelerated nursing: “I’m most excited for clinicals and to work in the hospital.”

What’s the one thing in your bag you couldn’t survive without?

Milos Nevajdic ‘30 jazz studies
Milos: “My saxophone harness. I keep it there because it’s not enough space in my case, if I lose that, I’m cooked.”
Kimberly Dang ‘29 nursing
Kimberly Dang ‘29 nursing: “Probably my iPad. I take a bunch of notes on my iPad.”

Q:

What’s your dream job?

A:

Kimberly: “I am going to school to be a labor and delivery nurse, but I’m hoping to become an OBGYN.”

A:

Justin Ouellette ‘30, business marketing: “Professional athlete agent.”

What are you listening to in between classes

Hannah Ober ’30, clarinet performance

Fleetwood Mac - Rumors Album Cover

Dreams

Fleetwood Mac

Anna Stewart ’30, music performance and ASL interpreting

Earrings Malcolm Todd - Album Cover

Earrings

Malcolm Todd

Fit check

Follow Benjamin Joseph:
Benjamin Joseph is a Strategic Communications Specialist at the University of Southern Maine. A filmmaker and storyteller with a background in visual media, he brings a creative approach to highlighting the people and programs that shape the USM community. Before joining the university, Benjamin co-founded Fine Cut Media, Inc., a Portland-based production company specializing in documentary and brand storytelling. He earned his BA in Media Studies from the University of Southern Maine.