Gordon State College students will return to campus next week with resident students moving in Monday and Tuesday Aug. 8 and 9 and commuter students joining them for classes starting Wednesday, Aug. 10.

"We're looking forward to a great year," said Tamara Boatwright, Gordon State College public information officer. "There are several new things on campus that will enhance the campus experience of our 4,000-plus students."

Newest to campus is The Dorothy W. Hightower Collaborative Learning Center and Library which opened in April.

The building offers students expanded study space both during and after regular library hours. It also features state of the art study and presentation rooms, banks of computers and, of course, books.

For students living on campus, Melton Hall received a refresh over the summer and is ready to offer residents a classic residence hall experience. Melton, the buildings that make up The Commons and The Village, house the 930 students who live on campus during the academic year.

While most meals are offered in the campus' main dining hall - Highlander Hall - Wholly Habaneros opens this semester in the Student Activity and Recreation Center. This location offers diners the opportunity to customize their meal with a choice of proteins, toppings and an assortment of extra items. It joins The Spot at The Village, Gordon Grind in the IC and Grounds in the Student Center.

As majority of Gordon students commute to campus it is recommended they - especially those new to campus - familiarize themselves with parking prior to the first day of class.

"I would recommend that a commuter drive over to campus to make sure they are familiar with where our parking lots are located," said Boatwright. "Or they can visit the campus map on our website gordonstate.edu."

For at least the first week, Gordon State College Police officers will be on hand to direct students to available parking spaces as lots fill up. If the need arises, overflow parking will be available on Honeysuckle Lane on the far east side of campus. Shuttle service from Honeysuckle to campus will be offered if that plan is put into effect.

"We do ask that students avoid parking on any city property, including areas adjacent to Summers Field," said Jeff Mason, Gordon State College Police Chief. "If students park on city property, they run the risk of being ticketed or even towed at the city's discretion."

Boatwright added that students can also look forward to many campus activities, sporting events - the women's soccer season starts soon with men's basketball in the fall - and study support at the Student Success with peer tutors.