What is Ohio University like during the time of COVID-19?
Ohio University During COVID-19
Ohio University has taken a very careful approach to the COVID-19 pandemic this fall. The university opened up its campuses in phases, and is now in its second phase.
Here is some information for you on what is and isn’t happening at Ohio University this Fall
Phase two of the fall reopening started on Monday, Sept. 28. In this phase, the university has invited more than 7,200 students back to take classes on the Athens campus. Many of these students take classes that have labs or other in-person experiences. Some of the classes require in-person opportunities for licenses that the students are working toward. Some of the students are also involved in varsity sports and are on campus to practice with their coaches.
In the residence halls, the university has spread the students out in order to help to keep everyone safe. In addition, separate living areas have been set up for students who need to be quarantined or isolated.
Campus life is very different this Fall
While the university is open, much of campus life is very different. The classrooms have been set up for physical distancing. In addition, class sizes have been kept low. Students no longer eat in large groups in the dining halls, either. Students now pick up food so they can eat in smaller groups.
Baker Center and Ping are open, but they and other facilities are not as busy as usual. You still see students on the College Green relaxing and eating lunch. It is much quieter, though, as there are simply fewer students in town.
Now, while there are 7,200 students in Phase 2, there are likely more students than that in Athens. Many students who are not in Phase 2 are living in their apartments. Their classes may all be online, but they are still living in Athens.
In addition, students living in off-campus housing (in Athens) are allowed to use the university facilities.
No one knows exactly how many students are in Athens, but we know it is much fewer than usual.
The university is not hosting any events such as Homecoming, concerts, parades and family weekends. The Bobcats will play football beginning in November, but as of now no fans will be allowed at the games. No other fall sports are being held this semester.
The university also has strict protocols and a COVID-19 testing program in place. While everything is not operating perfectly, the number of positive cases have not risen too high yet.
University and city officials will continue to keep a close eye on the numbers and will make changes if needed. Ideally the number of COVID-19 cases will drop soon, and the university will get back closer to normal in 2021.
For more information on the best housing options available in Athens this year and in 2021, contact University Rentals today.
Photo Kindly by Andi Chatfield.