As life crawls back to normalcy, we are still getting used to this new normal. For sure the world will never be the same again for any of us. Pandemic has changed everything around us, that includes the way we think, move, travel, socialise, or learn. For millions of students across the world, it has been the toughest year with an unwanted uncertainty, a messed up academic calendar and an unexpected transition from regular classrooms to virtual study rooms. The universities and colleges were forced to shut & discontinue their regular classes during the Coronavirus outbreak. Most of them resorted to online classes, video sessions and webinars to make sure the learning was seamless & uncompromised.
After completely moving to remote learning environments and more than six months of treading through unfamiliar territories, schools, colleges and universities are now starting to announce their plans for the upcoming semesters. Some schools will probably offer their curriculum completely online, while others are moving forward with in-person classes, and some will offer a combination of both online and in-person classes.
As students have now begun to return back to college campuses, this will be a challenging phase yet again for every institution of higher learning. Below are some tips to follow before you decide to return to campus:
General guidelines for Campus visit:
- Read carefully all the guidelines & protocols your institution might have published for the safety of the students
- Make sure you cover your face with a mask and take a few extra masks in your Bag along with disinfectant wipes, tissues, and hand sanitizer
- Avoid large groups/gathering of people. Maintain social (physical) distancing of at least 6 feet.
- Wear a face mask when out in groups or going to class. The mask should cover your nose, mouth and chin.
- While coughing or sneezing cover your mouth with your elbow or a tissue
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before and after touching any object and/or putting on and removing your mask
Class Attending Protocols:
- Read & follow the campus guidelines & protocols your institution might have published for the safety of the students
- Take online classes when possible and if allowed. If your classes are meeting in person, sign up for small sections.
- Wipe and clean your classroom desk when taking in-person classes & keep a distance of 1-2 seats between you and another classmate.
- Always wear a mask in class, covering your mouth, nose and chin.
- Set up a virtual study group with classmates and friends to help, assist and support each other during this time.
Residential/Hostel living precautions:
- If possible, seek a single room set up in a hostel or if you live in an apartment, request for a single bedroom.
- Use a personal closet to keep all your personal belongings separate. Avoid sharing with dorm or roommates but if you must, it’s important to sanitize and disinfect the surfaces, including door knobs, light switches & drawer handles before and after using.
- Disinfect the bathroom counter, sink, faucets, and toilet handles before use.
- Keep your toothbrush & toiletries upright and in separate holders if you are using a shared bathroom.
Dining/Food Sharing Precautions:
- It is advisable to wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizer before and after eating.
- Avoid sharing food, drink or utensils Go for disposable & one-time use serve ware
- Eat fresh food items when you can. Avoid uncooked or cold food
- If you are eating inside a dining hall, disinfect the tables and chairs before using them.
- When eating, always maintain at least 6 feet between you and the person sitting next to or across from you.
- Wash hands before and after touching public surfaces with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
If You fall Sick While on Campus:
- You must be aware of the symptoms and signs of COVID-19.
- If you observe the symptoms, get tested for COVID-19. If you test positive or have possibly been exposed to someone with COVID-19, stay home and self-isolate.
The new reality is going to take some getting used to. There is no fixed roadmap to sail through these unforeseen situations. Like we mentioned above, whether you’re a fresher, a current student, college faculty or staff, we’re all in this together. And together, with a lot of awareness, patience and understanding, we will conquer this new series of challenges very soon.
