CSULB kicks off a new academic year

Monday was the first day of the 2026-27 academic year at Cal State Long Beach and with it came the excitement of what the new year may bring.

More than 41,000 students are expected to return to The Beach this week to begin or continue their educational journey.

For first-year and transfer students, it's making new friends, learning to navigate the 322-acre campus and taking on new challenges.

For others, it's reconnecting with classmates and their favorite faculty and staff members they haven't seen since May.

Joe Smith, a fourth-year geography student, said he's looking forward to seeing his professors again and "getting back to the action" of his research.

"I can get things rolling again," he said.

For Leidy Castillo, a fourth-year student double majoring in finance and human resources, the first day represents a fresh start.

"I'm feeling so excited. I get to start again, and I really want to set myself up for my last year," said Castillo, who plans to pursue a post-graduate degree. "I really want to make my family proud."