Students Return to In-Person Classes With New Formats

With masks, social distancing and regulations in place, Marist students and faculty begin the fall 2020 semester.

Students walk to in-person classes on the first day of the fall semester. Source: Greta Stuckey ‘23

Walking onto the Marist campus for the fall 2020 semester brought new experiences for everyone, not just the freshmen. Faced with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the college changed many of its operations and policies to bring Red Foxes back onto campus. 

One of the most notable changes at Marist during the fall semester is the hybrid instruction of classes. According to Thomas S. Wermuth, vice president for Academic Affairs, 85% of classes have adopted a hybrid blend format, sending a portion of students into an in-person class one day a week and teaching remotely other session. In addition, each in-person class will let out 15 minutes earlier than usual to allow for proper cleaning and disinfecting of the classroom. At each classroom entrance, a plaque indicates whether the room has been disinfected. 

“It’s nice to know the classes are being cleaned regularly, and that they have wipes available in class and hand sanitizer. If you feel like you want to wipe down your space you definitely can,” Alexandra Coclin ‘23 said. 

 Marist uses a functional learning system called iLearn which has become the main hub of information for students and faculty. As the semester continues and classes are picking up, students like Coclin are adjusting to the virtual academics of the fall semester.  

“All of my professors are running classes so differently, it’s hard to keep up and remember who is doing it what way, and when assignments are due. It’s gotten a little messy,” Coclin said.  

This semester, Marist has also introduced Saturday classes. Due to in-person classes dismissing 15 minutes early, the college instituted two Saturday classes for every class that meets in person. If the class is solely taught online, this new rule does not apply. Holding these Saturday classes also discourages students from traveling, which is a point outlined in the reopening plan. 

Professors still strive to engage students, even under the unusual circumstances. 

“As always, I am impressed by the level of commitment and the investment Marist has made to ensure everyone’s safety,” Communications professor, Aimee J. Vargas, said. “I know when I come to campus that the absolute best, data-driven decisions have been made to ensure our students are able to enjoy the college experience while being safe and maintaining their health.  I commend President Murray and his team for the outstanding work they have done to date.”