By: Justine Long
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, DeBrenna L. Agbenyiga, sent out an email early this morning clarifying that the fall semester of 2021 will have all in-person learning.
“It has come to my attention that some students are under the assumption that remote learning will be an option,” Abenyiga said. “I want to be clear that remote learning during the fall semester is NOT an option.”
Students will choose to be either a resident on campus or a commuter. All classes will be held in person, with nothing online.
The email was a follow-up to a message that was sent out last week before Easter Break, making students aware that this was the College’s intention.
Students reacted to the news with mixed feelings.
“I think it seems good because it means that we’re moving back to normal and doing something right, but it might be an abrupt adjustment after doing zoom for three semesters,” Junior Makenzie Charest said. “Being in a hybrid model for so long, there could be some challenges.”
“I think there should be an option if we get sick or can not make the class,” Junior Jake Zabski said. “The technology is already put in place, so I think even if there is no remote learning, we should be able to still zoom into class if we need.”
After having a chaotic year, some seniors and other students do not agree with the email.
“I think it is a terrible decision. How do we know what is going to happen in the fall, especially after a full summer? By giving students false reassurance, it is setting yourself up for failure if we have to go into lockdown again.” Senior Nicole Marange said.
“We don’t know what the future holds. It is hard to make a set decision.” Sophomore Alison Golden said.
On the opposite end, some underclassmen are eager to get a “normal” academic setting back.
“I am looking forward to next semester because I have never experienced college in that way,” Freshman Erich Meslin said. “I would love to be all in person.”
The email sent out previously expressed some of the advantages of in-person classes.
“From an academic perspective, I certainly can appreciate the desire to return to the familiar, traditional classroom, lab, and studio environment,” Abenyiga said. “In-person learning helps to provide a less distracting and more engaging space in which to connect and interact with one another.”
Overall, the Provost and the Office of Academic Affairs wish everyone a safe and healthy rest of the spring semester and are excited to see students next fall.
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