SCRANTON -- This week, a college in Scranton is welcoming its largest class ever.
Johnson College has had to make some adjustments to make room for more than 100 extra students.
On the third day of classes at Johnson College in Scranton, students were getting into the swing of things, but something is different.
"It's a little weird," said senior Mike Santos. "Not used to so many people, so many new faces, making a lot of new friends. It's actually pretty nice."
There are a lot of new faces at this two-year technical college. It's the largest freshman class Johnson has ever had: 300 first-year students along with 200 returning for their second year.
"So far, it's a little crowded, we're making out quite well. Diesel shop, where I am studying, is fairly large compared to last year. The café hasn't been too bad, the computer lab is a little stacked up. But, I think we're working quite well," said senior Dorian Lamphere.
That many more students meant Johnson College had to make some big changes. The school hired more instructors and completely changed the way the class schedules work to keep class sizes the same.
Johnson College officials have spent the first few days getting an idea of why their classes have grown by 50 percent. Some students have a story.
"I actually transferred from a college just to come here," said freshman Mark Samuels. "It's a great school."
Some are avoiding extra student debt by completing only a two-year program. Others liked the probability of getting a job in their field.
"I think because it's affordable, you could always use a trade. And it's just a small environment and you become a family," said senior Emily Brown.
"I just liked how the placement rate sounded so good," said freshman Maria pelliccia. "Just heard very good things about the radiology department."
No matter their reasons, Johnson College officials say they're prepared to handle their growing population. So far, there aren't any plans to expand the campus in Scranton.
