Residence Life
Pilots Prevent
February 16, 2021
It’s not always easy sharing a room with someone, even in the best of times. But with the pandemic leaving a lot of us feeling isolated, many students returning to campus this spring were eager to make more meaningful social connections to one another. Departments across campus worked to make sure the transition back to campus life was as safe as possible, including baseline COVID testing, a one-week quarantine period upon arrival, and ongoing surveillance testing in addition to masking, physical distancing, and sanitation.
For some, settling in together during the first week of quarantine was an adjustment—even if it was a welcome one. Alexis Randazzo ’24 and Amanda Newman ’24 of Corrado Hall signed up to be roommates after meeting through eRezLife. “It felt like we were here for three years in a week,” said Newman. “We watched a lot of movies, did a lot of organizing. It felt like jumping in headfirst; now we’re best friends and doing everything together.”
Most people find that getting outside has been the best way to bond and shake off boredom and stress. Miguel Navarro ‘24 of Villa Hall, says that he and his roommate are only in their dorm when taking classes, sleeping, and eating. “I love going on walks around campus, looking at the view from The Bluff,” he says. “We go on grocery runs, walk together, get food together, hang out in the tents and talk. After being online last semester it’s amazing to have that in-person experience—people are not meant to be locked inside.”
Now that the quarantine period is over and most students are back in a routine, some with in-person classes, more movement and activities are a welcome relief. The residence life staff have been coming up with all kinds of creative ways to make sure there are plenty to keep students engaged and provide ways to make connections. “They’ve done something almost every night,” says Randazzo, “Our floor had a ping pong tournament. There was a Bob Ross painting night, cupcake decorating. Our RA and hall directors are amazing. They’re good at getting unique activities to get people involved.”
All the students note that there are lots of rules and precautions that the staff are taking seriously, but that makes them feel safer and they’re not having any less fun for it. “It’s been tons of fun,” said Navarro, recounting all the activities that Villa Hall, known for its lively culture, has been entertaining students with, from Smash Brothers and Mario Kart tournaments, to hay cart races on the quad. “The community is great. I’ve already made a lot of memories in these first weeks.”
Sophomores Libby Callahan ‘23 and Christine Burchinal ’23 were best friends last year, and now live in Lund Family Hall. With an already close friendship, they note how important it is to remain open in communicating and to check in on each other. “We’re in tune with each other’s vibe,” says Callahan, “we can tell when it’s off. That gives us a clue to check in.” Burchinal agrees. “The communication is very much open; sharing how we’re feeling is important.”
Newman and Randazzo underscore the importance of open and honest dialogue. No matter how close you may be to someone, there will be times of conflict or disagreement, so roommate communication is key. “It’s hard being together 24/7,” says Newman, “even though we know each other really well. We do try to take some time apart.”
“It’s about learning boundaries,” adds Randazzo, “and opening up the conversation.”
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