Students Return To Bryant University's Smithfield Campus

SMITHFIELD, RI — For the first time since the majority of the student body was sent home in March due to the coronavirus health crisis students will be back on campus at Bryant University in Smithfield starting Tuesday.

The school announced in April that, while many classes will be taught remotely, students will be able to enjoy the campus experience as part of their education at the school despite the ongoing pandemic.

Tuesday and Wednesday are the first days that first-year students will be moving back to campus. They will be followed by transfer move-in students on Thursday, and returning students on Sunday and Monday.

Students arriving internationally or from states considered "hot spots" will be required to quarantine. They will be allowed to move around campus for essential services only as long as they have no coronavirus symptoms, have not knowingly been around anyone who has tested positive for coronavirus and who have received a negative test after returning to campus.

The school said students will be able to bring two helpers over the age of 18 to assist with their move-in process. All helpers must wear a mask and practice social distancing while assisting their students with moving in.

Students were encouraged to "pack lightly" for the fall semester, only bringing essential items, medication, cleaning products and personal protection equipment such as face masks.

Upon arriving to campus, students will be directed to the COVID-19 testing tent in front of the Bulldog Strength & Conditioning Center to complete a coronavirus test. After taking the test, students will be directed to the back of the campus to pick up a bagged lunch and non-perishable breakfast for the next morning.

After receiving a room key, movers are asked to unpack vehicles and move items to the room as quickly as possible. Guests must leave when moving is complete and students will be restricted to their room until receiving a negative test result — which will be emailed in about 24 hours.

Dinner will be delivered to the students' room the night of move-in until a negative test is achieved.

More information on student guidelines for returning to campus can be found here.

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