CHLOE KOWALYK
News Editor
With recent updates in CDC guidelines and an increase in vaccination rates, many students are wondering what next semester at SUNY Fredonia is going to look like.
According to SUNY Fredonia, the campus is hoping to reach a “near normal,” which will replace the image of a “new” normal.
However, creating this “near normal” atmosphere poses to be quite difficult.
With changing advice from the CDC and the need to comply with the SUNY system, the exact view of the Fall 2021 semester is still unknown.
In previous interviews, many campus services such as Academic Affairs, Pool Testing and Residence Life have said that they are still unsure what next semester will look like.
This is still the case, as with changing case numbers, vaccination rates and CDC guidelines, all final decisions are set to be made prior to student move-in dates, which begin on Aug. 19.
The college is constantly updating the guidelines for next semester on fredonia.edu/about/fall2021, which can be accessed by students, parents and faculty alike.
Here is what we currently know.
SUNY Fredonia is currently planning to return to normal course scheduling in the fall, including in-person instruction.
Students will be able to choose their courses from the standard modalities of the college: face-to-face classes, online-only classes, and hybrid classes.
It is important to note that Fredonia is not planning to offer remote synchronous classes in the fall.
In an email to faculty and staff, Interim Provost Kevin Kearns said, “We will continue the 20 minute class break schedule adopted this academic year.”
That being said, the 20 minute breaks between Zoom classes will transfer to in-person classes next semester.
Along with in-person classes, the college plans to hold in-person clubs and activities next semester.
According to Mark Suida, the director of Campus Life, the college has created many different scenarios for Activities Night based on guidance from SUNY and the CDC.
As with many other aspects of next semester, decisions are still waiting to be made until more guidance is given at the start of the semester.
Regarding study abroad programs, SUNY has suspended international travel and study abroad programs until further notice.
Currently, Residence Life has no COVID-related restrictions set in place for students living in residence halls.
Many students are hoping to return to some normalcy through intervisitation and regular dorm life.
In terms of dining on campus, FSA plans to offer a combination of dine-in and takeout services in the dining halls.
Cranston Marche will be a dine-in only buffet, while Willy C’s will offer both dine-in and takeout opportunities.
Dine-in capacity will be determined based on guidelines set in place by the CDC at the start of the semester.
A major question on the minds of many students is whether or not vaccination for COVID-19 will be mandatory to attend in-person next semester.
Governor Cuomo has recently announced that vaccination is mandatory for all SUNY and CUNY students.
However, this mandate is contingent upon the actions of the SUNY board and the full FDA approval of the vaccines.
The vaccines are currently approved through the FDA’s emergency use authorization process.
Currently 1,400 people, including community members and students, have been vaccinated on Fredonia’s campus.
According to SUNY Fredonia, around 6,000 students will need to be vaccinated to be “in good standing.”
Regarding masks, a decision on whether or not it will be required to wear masks in residence halls and academic buildings at the start of the fall semester will be in compliance with SUNY and the Chautauqua County Department of Health.
While there are still many questions regarding what next semester will look like, both SUNY Fredonia and its students are hoping for a safe and fun fall semester.