Everyone is itching to return to normal. However, “normal” still eludes us and will likely continue to do so for awhile. Though you’re heartbroken that your planned college experience isn’t going to look like you hoped it would this year, that doesn’t mean you should change your plans and opt for any school just because they’re planning in-person instruction. If you’re considering switching schools or deciding between online and in-seat classes at your chosen institution, it’s important to evaluate their reopening plan to make sure it’s mindful, thorough, and safe. Here’s what to look for.
This post is sponsored by Northwest University.
1. Thoughtful Planning and Concern for Student Safety. Read your college’s reopening plan and safety measures. Do they seem genuinely concerned with student safety first and foremost? Or are they simply doing the bare minimum to meet requirements and finding loopholes in the local guidance? You want an institution that appreciates its students enough to put their safety at the forefront.
2. Seamless Transition Between Online and In-Class Options. If you choose a face-to-face class and need to quarantine for two weeks because of illness or exposure, what happens? In normal circumstances, your grades may suffer or you may need a hardship withdrawal. To avoid having an entire semester (and your tuition) fall by the wayside, see what plans your institution has for in-person students who can no longer attend in-person. Is there an opportunity to transition to online instruction seamlessly, with the same instructor? Learn about what plans they have to support student success in the face of unpredictable health needs.
3. Special Planning for Residential Students. Dorms are notorious for housing lots of students in close proximity. It’s part of the authentic “college experience.” But in the age of COVID, learn about what measures your institution has enacted to protect the health and safety of its residential students. Has capacity been reduced? Increased bathroom cleanings? Regular sanitation of hand rails and community doorknobs? What about the cafeteria? Learn about how they intend to keep their residents safe.
4. Plans for Developing Community. When you’re living away from home, you need to develop community. It’s important for your quality of life and mental health. However, developing community presents huge challenges during a pandemic. Traditional ice cream socials or group trust exercises probably won’t happen. Learn about how your college plans to help you connect with others (safely) so you’re not living in isolation.
This year will be memorable, no doubt. But in addition to its notoriety for all the wrong reasons, it can also be an amazing year of learning and growing through your college or university of choice. Just make sure they’re doing it safely.
Northwest University is committed to offering the best academic and residential experiences for our students, and have taken exceptional care in crafting a reopening plan with student safety at the forefront. With a dual-delivery course model that allows students to seamlessly transition between in-person and online learning as needed, along with thoughtful consideration of community development in this unprecedented time, we are prepared to safely welcome students back to our campus this fall.
Offering flexible online learning options alongside traditional programs, there are plenty of options at Northwest University. We have everything to help your child grow academically, spiritually, and personally through academic supports, spiritual growth opportunities, and thriving community. Learn about the comprehensive supports Northwest University offers its students and schedule a virtual visit today!