Fall semester classes began Monday at Albany State University.
A lot of Albany businesses are happy to see students return. Students pump millions of dollars into the local economy.
Last year, ASU had more than a $148 million impact on Albany's economy. Students already know what they're going to buy as they prepare for the semester.
"I'm definitely going to go to Walmart and buy groceries because I need to eat, definitely going to buy school supplies otherwise, I wouldn't be able to matriculate the right way here at Albany State University," said ASU student Renniah Gay.
"I'm going to buy books first, then school supplies that I might not have for the first week and then I'll probably buy something for myself. Some new clothes or something," said ASU student Ryan Patrick.
Some retailers around the city will see an increase of business, especially the fast food industry.
The Co-owner of Maryland Fried Chicken right across the street from the ASU campus has already seen business pick up in recent days. So much so, she's hired new employees.
"So far, we hired five new employees and we hired the employees to accommodate the students coming back to Albany State," said Maryland Fried Chicken Co-owner Celestine Steele.
It's not just students contributing to the economic impact, new faculty members are as well.
"I'm new in the Albany area, so don't forget that it's not just students, it's faculty and staff too like me. I needed an apartment and I found one in Albany," said ASU Institutional Advancement Assistant VP Vickie Oldham.
Students we talked to on campus say they realize what impact they have on the community.
"The students here at Albany State University are such an important part of the city of Albany because we do bring great revenue to the city through the money that we spend," said Gay.
They know spending dollars locally will help businesses both big and small.
According to a study by the University System of Georgia, ASU provided over 1700 jobs last year.
Last year, student spending alone accounted for a more than $70 million impact on the city of Albany.
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Renniah Gay
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