Boise State implements social distancing protocols for move-in day in response to delta variant

With the start of the fall semester just around the corner, many students are preparing for the move to on-campus housing. This year, that means new procedures.

While many hope that campus life this year will more closely resemble pre-pandemic times, risks posed by the increase in delta variant infections has led the university to revise move-in protocols for the safety of students.

“As was the case in 2020, our move-in process has been decentralized and intentionally slowed down to ensure that students can maintain physical distance to the fullest extent possible while the campus welcomes all of its incoming residents,” said Adam Apperson, associate director of Housing Operations for Housing and Residence Life at Boise State.

Move-in, which was divided into two days to allow for social distancing, kicked off on Aug. 18 and went through the 19. At the beginning of August, students were emailed a specific time at which to arrive at their designated room assignment, along with other important reminders.

Unvaccinated students were required to be tested for COVID-19 within three to five days of being on campus. 

These requirements, which had been continuously updated leading up to the start of the semester, are subject to change as conditions warrant. The most recent update for students was the reinstatement of facial coverings, which was implemented on Aug. 12.

“As things slowly return to ‘pre-pandemic’ times, I’m hopeful that the campus as a whole will do just fine, but the potential consequence of us not being allowed visitors again or going back to mostly online classes is a slightly nerve-wracking thought that I hope won’t become our reality again,” said Hailey Clemens, a junior dual early childhood special education major.

The Housing and Residence Life department is currently reviewing regulations around residence hall visitors, and will release updated information soon. Department leaders have also asked that students bring no more than two helpers and wear face coverings while moving in. 

In terms of help available to students, the university has continuously updated their website information surrounding procedures for move-in day, requirements for on-campus housing and general FAQs. Staff and volunteers will also be present during move-in day to answer questions and provide directions.

“Our Public Health Office is maintaining its own FAQ to share information about COVID testing, vaccinations and isolation protocols,” Apperson said. “Students should read the aforementioned FAQ to understand if and when they’ll be required to test for COVID, how exemptions work and where testing is facilitated.”

Beyond COVID protocols, students have also been made aware of the Bronco Welcome program, along with other opportunities to familiarize themselves with the campus community and connect with other students.

“I am looking forward to getting to hang out with my friends and roommates more while living on campus,” Clemens said. “This summer I have been very busy working, so I’m hoping that this year will have more opportunities for me to get to spend time with others!”

With so many preparations in place for new residents to begin their campus experience, students are encouraged to utilize all campus resources available to them as needed, and to not be afraid to ask questions.

“Campus offices will be open in full force throughout move-in,” Apperson said. “Tons of great events and programming [are happening] both in- and out-of-hall to help students meet people and get comfortable with the campus.
For any questions about housing, contact Housing and Residence Life at housing@boisestate.edu or visit their Help Center.