In the latter half of the spring semester, like most schools across the nation, UF transitioned to online instruction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since that time, UF has been hard at work trying to determine the best way to safely bring students back on campus for the Fall 2020 semester. Here are some of the highlights regarding procedures they are putting in place to protect students, staff, and faculty.
Drive Through Testing
UF will have a ten-station testing site for students, staff, and faculty to receive COVID-19 testing in a drive-thru format. UF will be implementing a program called Screen, Test & Protect to allow the safe return of faculty staff and students to campus. The testing is at no cost to individuals.
Student Screening
Upon returning to campus all students will undergo COVID-19 screening assessment. This screening assessment developed by UF Health will be a requirement for all students returning to campus in the fall.
For students in the medical field who will be interacting in a clinical setting, there will be additional practices and procedures required. Also, UF does reserve the right to require testing for all student-athletes if they feel it's necessary in the future.
CDC Guidelines
UF is doing its best to set up policies and procedures that adhere to CDC guidelines including requiring face coverings (masks, shields, etc.), physical distancing of 6 feet or more whenever possible, hand sanitizing, and cleaning and disinfecting.
Enhanced Cleaning Procedures
Common touchpoints and areas like doorknobs, keyboards, elevator buttons etc. will receive extra cleaning with CDC-approved disinfectants.
For the full information on UF's reopening plan and procedures, check out the UF official website and their reopening plan.
How does this affect finding apartments in Gainesville near UF?
Many apartments near UF are offering virtual tours and electronic lease signing to minimize in-person visits as much as possible. Most of these apartments in Gainesville are requiring that you wear a mask and practice social distancing when possible if you do choose to go into the leasing office to ask questions or would like an in-person tour of potential apartments.
Finding a Roommate
If you're looking for an apartment in Gainesville and looking or a roommate, things are looking a bit different. When you're looking for your new roommate you may want to ask some more questions regarding their practices with social distancing and if they've been around anyone that has had the coronavirus. You can even suggest that you both get tested. The university will be offering that drive-thru free testing station for all students.
Finding the Perfect Apartment
During these uncertain times, it can make finding an apartment in Gainesville feel overwhelming. The good news is you don't have to sacrifice to find your perfect space. The method by which you find your space is a little different, but with all of our current technology at our fingertips, it makes finding your space a little less stressful.