Move-in begins at U of M amid COVID-19 precautions

Move-in day began Monday on the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus.

The hustle and bustle outside Pioneer Hall made it seem like a fairly typical start to the school year. However, with the delta variant spreading, the U of M administration is taking a number of precautions to keep students, faculty and staff safe. Masks must be worn at all indoor university spaces, and the administration announced earlier this month that students will be required to be fully vaccinated.

KSTP Reporter Ginna Roe said she observed a quiet start to move-in day at the university.

This year, the school is holding move-in sessions during two days to give students more time and to make sure everyone isn’t trying to move in all at once.

Students and parents 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS talked with said they’re excited for a new school year.

"By the third kid, you learn to come early," one parent said.

They also didn’t seem to mind the extra safety measures. Some said it might be an inconvenience but it’s worth it if it means learning in person.

"I’m happy to live in the dorms," incoming freshman Stone Farrugio said. "My friends couldn’t at all last year. We actually get to have a college experience."

Some students, like freshman Rachel Meyer, expressed their concerns "that people won’t be following the rules and things will rip through dorms like crazy and people will be sent home."

Freshman Zuki Shong, said, meanwhile, "I’m not that worried about it but I am just concerned if other students don’t really care to wear their masks. That’s the only problem I would have."

Other students 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS talked with said they are optimistic that despite COVID-19, it’s going to be a great year ahead.

When it comes to moving in, university officials are asking people to do it quickly. Students are asked to only bring one to three helpers to minimize congestion.

Move-in day at the university will continue through Tuesday.

Other schools like Michigan State, Purdue and the University of Florida are taking similar approaches to the start of the school year.