Over the next few weeks students at universities will be making a staggered return to campus. At the moment, this only applies to students with practical modules.
For nearly a year now students of all ages have been learning online, through group and one-to-one video calls, and pre-recorded presentations.
For some students, the return to campus is a welcomed touch of normality. For others, they are deeply anxious for what the future holds.
We have spoken to various students from York St. John University about what the return to campus means for them.
George Walker
George is due to return to the YSJ campus on the 20 March. This will be the his last two months on campus before completing his degree in Media Production: Film & TV.
How does returning to campus make you feel?
“I’m nervous we’re rushing into it, and it putting us into another lockdown.
“But, I am craving to actually see people in person. So, mainly I am super excited to get back into it.”
What does it mean to be able to work in person with your course mates?
“It feels like we can actually communicate.
“Video calls get us through, but it’s simply not as effective as talking to someone face-to-face.”
Do you think the transition from being online to in person will be difficult mentally?
“I think we have all built these new psychological barriers that make us very uncomfortable in the presence of people outside of our bubble.
“It’s going to be really strange, but worth it in the long run.”
The university has limited the number of students per session, as well as implemented slots in the library. This means that students are getting that much needed human interaction, in a very safe environment.
Students like George will require specialist certification to enable them to carry out filming production.
We also had the opportunity to speak with Jamie Andrews, president of the student union (SU) and previous student of YSJ.
Jamie Andrews
What precautions have you yourself put in place for a smooth transition back to on campus support?
“I haven’t been directly responsible for the return to campus procedures, but I do regularly liaise with senior members of staff, and we at the SU regularly meet to discuss the roadmap for return and how to ensure it is safe, and our students anxieties are addressed and hopefully eased.”
How do you feel about the return to campus for students with practical modules?
“I know how hard it’s been for students, especially those with practical elements, as we know that not all will have access to the resources necessary.
“It’s great that these students can now safely begin to return to campus to use facilities.”
Students on creative courses such as media or graphic design require specialist software and often benefit from the use of dual-screen computers.
To ensure their work is of the highest standards, students will still be allowed to take out specialist equipment (such as cameras and microphones). Like the library slots, students will book slots for their equipment, as well as regularly cleaning them before and after use – with staff cleaning them upon return.
Chantele Hodson
21-year-old Media Production: Journalism student, Chantele, is set to return to the York St. John (YSJ) campus next Tuesday (16 March). This will allow her to complete the remainder of her degree before the summer arrives.
How does returning to campus make you feel?
“I’m quite nervous, I haven’t properly been to uni since last March.”
What does it mean to be able to work in person with your course mates?
“I haven’t seen my course mates for a year now.
“I think it will be beneficial to my mental health to see not just my course mates, but my lecturers too.”
Do you feel safe returning?
“Yes, I do. When I returned briefly last year, there was plenty of hand sanitiser and one way systems.
“We are also encouraged to get tested twice a week on campus.”