In response to the coronavirus pandemic, many colleges adapted their guidelines regarding student housing. However, some students are staying home and taking classes virtually, while others are on campus and following a hybrid schedule. Many families have been affected by these changes as colleges continue to change rules to better protect students and staff. 

For instance, at Virginia Tech, several residence halls have been reserved as isolation spaces for students that have contracted COVID-19 or come into contact with someone who tested positive. They have also adopted a hybrid system in which students take a combination of in-person and virtual classes. 

“My brother attends two in-person classes [at Virginia Tech] and they run very smoothly,” sophomore Lucy Sherrier said. “I’m honestly impressed with how [Virginia Tech] has handled the virus.”

Local universities such as Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia have kept their doors open to students while instituting protective measures to curb a potential rise in COVID-19 cases. In late August, the University of Virginia announced that the school would resume some classes in person, with additional virtual options available. As of October, all students and faculty on campus have had to participate in daily symptom checks, wear cloth masks indoors and outdoors, social distance when possible and be subject to travel restrictions. 

“[University of Virginia] has taken quite good preventative measures against COVID-19 this year to ensure the safety of their students,” sophomore Becky Paul said. “[However], my sister decided not to move on campus this semester in order to stay safe.”