COVID-19 move-in reminders for undergraduates

Dear upperclass undergraduates,

We’re writing today with timely information about our COVID-19 requirements, especially for our new arrivals. Some of you are here with us. Many more will be arriving soon. We’d like to send a huge welcome to all of you!

Important! Here’s what you need to know.

• New arrivals are required to complete COVID-19 tests on Day 0 (the day you arrive on campus) and Day 5. Everything you need to know about testing is right here. Test kits will be available at check-in tables and many locations campuswide.
• You’ll need a green badge to enter our dining halls. We’ll be checking badges at the entrances. Your Health Check badge will be red until you test. Everything you need to know about Health Check is right here. Students with red badges will be required to pick up to-go meals. You’ll find more information, including the steps we’re taking to keep our dining halls as safe as possible, on the Residential & Dining Enterprises website.

• We know there’s lots to do when you arrive. Here’s a checklist to get you through the first few days.

We need everyone’s help!

• Minimize high-risk close contacts from now until Oct. 8. This is our most vulnerable period.  A high-risk close contact is someone who has spent a prolonged period of time unmasked and indoors with a positive case. If we can keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible, we can transition to more in-person activities. Here’s our fall quarter guidance on student gatherings and parties.
• Don’t be fooled! Even mild cold, sore throat or allergy-like symptoms may be COVID-19. Please test at the first sign of mild symptoms.
• Don’t judge people who test positive. Despite every effort, it still happens.
• If you test positive, let high-risk contacts know so they can avoid exposing others. Here are steps to take immediately.
• Keep in mind there will be some students on campus who are unvaccinated or in the process of getting vaccinated. Help to protect them, as they may experience a greater degree of illness.
• Remember, no one can totally control COVID-19. Expect that there will be cases, but let’s work together to keep our numbers small! This is truly a team effort.

In closing, we’d like to thank everyone who has been on campus over the past year. Students have done a good job testing, masking, physical distancing and updating Health Check as needed. Let’s continue the great work! We look forward to seeing all of you soon and wish you the very best this autumn.

Sincerely,

Mona Hicks
Senior Associate Vice Provost and Dean of Students

Dr. Jim Jacobs
Associate Vice Provost and Executive Director, Vaden Health Services