ESTERO, Fla. — Florida Gulf Coast University students rolled their belongings into their new home away from home Monday with a realistic perspective.
“I think this is definitely going to be different from anything we’ve ever expected,” said freshman MacKenzie Valentine.
Many remained optimistic. Freshman Nadya Rosa-Arroyo, bounced with excitement as her family helped her move into her dorm room. Like thousands of peers, its her first time living on her own. She says she’s more nervous about that, than catching COVID-19
“I feel like everyone is going to do what they need to do to keep everyone safe,” said Rosa-Arroyo.
Freshman Andrea Toles says they have FGCU faculty and staff to thank for that.
“My school is doing a great job and making sure we stay safe and stuff,” she said. “I’m really happy about the way they’re handing it.”
The university created a “Protect the Nest” video, so FGCU Eagles remember to wear their masks, wash their hands, and keep their distance.
They also have to check-in on an app everyday. Once they answer some COVID-related questions, they’ll either get the green light to go to campus, or prompted to call a medical professional.
Kelly Leonov’s a mom and is grateful for the staggered move-in process this year.
"I’ve did this once before, and it was ridiculous. This was not a lot of people, calm. Everything was [AOK],” she said.
Freshman Jonathan Ban says the school’s strict safety guidelines are for his good.
“It might seem a little taxing to have to go through all these steps, but it’s probably going to help in the long run,” he said.
He’s already embracing his new journey.
“Definitely different than I thought it would be like. But it’s still fun,” said Ban.
Classes start Monday and FGCU is offering free COVID testing to all students, faculty, and staff through August 19th, whether they have symptoms or not. They’re also testing symptomatic students through early December.
