Back to Campus

Colleges and universities face a unique challenge this fall as students head back to campus on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic. Making sure that staff and students stay safe is every school’s top priority, and with social distancing, sanitization and health safety measures still fresh on everyone’s mind, schools are looking for ways to mitigate the risk while preserving as many college experiences as possible. For some schools, this may look like a combination of online and in-person classes. For other schools, putting students in seats is the priority and more drastic measures may be taken to ensure safety.

Face Covers

In the fight against COVID-19 and other viral illnesses, covering up has proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce transmission. Many colleges and universities will require students returning to campus this fall to come prepared with plenty of cloth face masks on hand. Fortunately, with lightweight materials and plenty of fabric designs available, covering up can also give students the opportunity to express themselves. For members of sororities and fraternities, custom Greek face masks and neck gaiters can be a great way to comply with face cover mandates while showing off their Greek affiliation.

Social Distancing & Contact Tracing

In many college classrooms, students have sat almost shoulder to shoulder while they listen to lectures, take notes and soak in as much information as possible. Common areas like lounges, dorm rooms and even the cafeteria can also put students within close proximity to one another.

This fall, colleges are going to have to find ways to implement social distancing measures both in and out of the classroom. From reducing class sizes to expanding dining hall hours, expect schools to look for ways to spread students out. Social distancing doesn’t have to mean not socializing at all. Outdoor activities are generally considered safer than indoor activities, so start planning your intramural team now and grab matching shirts for the crew.

Of course, if an outbreak happens, contact tracing is going to be key to prevent illness from quickly spreading through the student body. Many colleges and universities plan to have contact tracers on standby in the event that a student tests positive for COVID-19.

Improved Sanitization

Of course, covering up and social distancing can only go so far. Colleges and universities are going to have to also make an effort to keep common areas clean and sanitized. Students can also do their part by keeping dorm rooms cleaned and communicating with professors when they’re sick. By working together, college administrators and students can be a team in staying health as everyone head’s back to campus this fall.