Important Update for the Next Two Weeks (March 14-29)

March 10, 2020

Dear Students,

This message contains important information about classes, travel registry, and campus resources for Saturday, March 14 through Sunday, March 29. 

These developments continue to be based on an abundance of caution, and we continue to take proactive steps to support our community’s well-being. At this time, we still do not have a confirmed case of the virus on campus. We do understand that many of you have questions related to COVID-19 for yourself and your friends and family.  

  • Columbia’s FAQs give guidance if you believe you were exposed to someone who tested positive for the virus, are not sure if you have been exposed, or have other questions and concerns. 

The rest of this email includes information about March 14-29 on campus. Your school will update you too.

Classes

  • Classes continue online March 23-27, and the campus remains open. 

  • No decision has been made yet about whether classes will be online after that. We are monitoring the situation closely and are fully committed to updating you as soon as a decision is made. We understand how important this question is to many of you. 

Read more: Important Student Resources for Online Instruction

Spring Break: Registry and Travel Guidance

  • All students are required to register all personal and Columbia-related travel, including in the U.S., in the Register a Trip tool on the University’s Global Travel website. Deadline: Thursday, March 12, at 6 pm.

  • The purposes are to provide guidance to you, if needed, and plan for campus resources during the break.

  • The University currently has no restrictions on personal travel in the United States. Your school will give you information about any changes to school-sponsored spring break domestic travel.

  • The University strongly discourages non-essential personal international travel. If you travel internationally, you may face restrictions on your return.

  • Follow the familiar health precautions wherever you are: wash your hands, don’t share food or drink, cough and sneeze into your elbow, and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

Libraries, Fitness, Housing and Dining 

  • Libraries and fitness centers remain open, with enhanced cleaning.

  • You can continue to study and socialize with friends and classmates. Keep in mind the familiar health precautions!

  • Dining and coffee shops remain open, with enhanced cleaning and grab-and-go options. 

  • Housing remains open, with enhanced cleaning.

Campus Life

  • Look forward to online and small-group University Life activities coming soon. Your school will follow up with you on school-based activities. 

Getting Help

Thank you for your questions, suggestions and flexibility as our community moves together through this evolving and dynamic time, with our values of respect and consideration alongside our concern for everyone’s health and well-being.

In community,

 

Professor Suzanne B. Goldberg
Executive Vice President for University Life
Herbert and Doris Wechsler Clinical Professor of Law