MACHIAS — College students arrived on the University of Maine at Machias campus this week from all points of Maine and New England and even China and Japan to begin a new year of study. They were greeted by faculty and staff at orientation sessions for new students, and registration sites for those returning for further study.

Classes begin this week and next on campus and at the Calais Center, located on the campus of the Washington County Technical College. The availability of more than 30 courses broadcast over the interactive television network has expanded opportunities to UMM students and Washington County residents. These courses are available at ITV sites at high schools in Eastport, Jonesport-Beals, Lubec, Woodland, on the UMM campus and at the UMM Calais Center.

The diverse and varied program offerings at UMM are continuing to be attractive to college students seeking a more personal approach to education. Utilizing the local environment, courses and programs have been developed to study marine ecology and environmental issues, while programs in teacher education, business, recreation management, liberal studies, and behaviorial science capture interest.

International students have grown in number on the Machias campus in recent years and this year is no exception. While Canadian students are the most prevalent foreign country represented, students also arrived this week from Pakistan, England, France, Japan and China. An active International Club plans activities to help meet these students’ needs. The club, open to all UMM students, also offers an opportunity for U.S. students to become better acquainted with the foreign students who bring perspectives on a different world and culture to American students.

Soccer season has begun with daily practices on the field adjacent to Sennett Hall. Arsalan Bayat of Whiting has been named soccer coach for the season and the Clippers will be hosts to Lyndon State College of Vermont in the first home game at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7.

Joan Chamberlain, director of Stage Front: The Arts Downeast, has announced a new series of cultural events beginning on Sept. 20 and 21 with a female illusionist show called, “The Magic of Lyn.” Season tickets are on sale now at the UMM business office for the entire series or tickets can be purchased at the door for each event.

The two UMM art galleries in Powers Hall are open daily during the week from 1 to 4 p.m. The current shows are the photographs of Chansonetta Stanley Emmons and American Women Artists and the Maine Influence, Part II.

Hours for the Merrill Library at UMM are from 1 to 10 p.m. Sunday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday.