Students Returning To Campus: What To Expect This Year

The COVID-19 pandemic and political shifts have had a significant impact on the return of students to university campuses worldwide. While some countries are encouraging students to return to in-person learning, others are advising students to continue their studies remotely. In the UK, for instance, universities were allowed to resume in-person teaching for specific courses from March 2021, but students on other courses were advised to continue studying remotely. This created a complex situation, with some students returning to campus and others remaining at home, leading to a hybrid model of learning. In the US, universities urged international students to return to campus before the 2024 presidential inauguration due to anticipated travel restrictions and stricter immigration rules under the new administration. These varying circumstances have led to uncertainty and anxiety among students, with many facing challenges related to travel, accommodation, and the quality of their education.

International students and travel bans

International students have been urged by US universities to return to campus before Donald Trump's inauguration, as fears of another travel ban loom. Trump has pledged to implement hardline immigration policies, including an expansion of his previous travel ban on people from predominantly Muslim countries, and the revocation of student visas. This has caused 42% of international students to reconsider the US for higher education, with European students being the most affected demographic.

Trump's proposed "America First" policies and anti-immigrant rhetoric have created a hostile environment, making many international students hesitant to study in the US. The perception of a less welcoming US has led to doubts about safety and acceptance. The administration's emphasis on prioritizing US citizens and its nationalistic approach to education have made international students feel unwelcome and deterred them from choosing US institutions.

In response, universities across the US have started issuing travel advisories to their faculty members and international students. For example, Cornell University's Office of Global Learning advised students travelling abroad to return before the start of the spring semester or to "communicate with an advisor about your travel plans and be prepared for delays." The University of Southern California, which has a large number of international students, urged foreign students to be back in the US a week before Trump's return to the White House.

The impact of Trump's presidency on international student interest is evident in the changing dynamics of student searches for US graduate programs. Data shows a decline in overall interest in US educational programs, with a 5% drop in the number of students searching for Master's and PhD programs in the US between October 30 and November 6, 2024. This shift is largely driven by the political climate, visa restrictions, and concerns about safety.

As a result, other countries are experiencing a surge in international student interest. Sweden, Finland, and Singapore, in particular, have seen significant increases in student searches, offering competitive education systems and more favourable visa policies. The US's dominance in global higher education is further diminished as more countries are perceived as politically stable and welcoming to international students.

Online learning vs in-person teaching

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the education sector, with many universities adopting online learning as a safer alternative to in-person teaching. While online learning has its advantages, it cannot replicate the experience and benefits of in-person teaching.

Online Learning vs. In-Person Teaching

Advantages of Online Learning

• Accessibility: Online learning removes geographical barriers and allows students from diverse backgrounds and locations to access educational resources. This is especially beneficial for those who cannot attend in-person classes, such as single parents, military personnel, or full-time employees.
• Flexibility: Students can set their own schedules, accommodating different learning paces and styles. Pre-recorded lectures and virtual classrooms provide convenience and reduce the need for commuting.
• Cost-effectiveness: Online education tends to be more affordable due to lower overhead costs, and in some cases, it can be free.
• Diversity: Online learning platforms enable students to connect with individuals worldwide, fostering diverse perspectives and potential future opportunities.

Disadvantages of Online Learning

• Online Fatigue: The extensive use of virtual meeting platforms can lead to "Zoom fatigue," causing dreariness and decreased engagement.
• Lack of Engagement: Building relationships and maintaining interactions virtually can be challenging, leading to reduced student motivation and passive learning.
• Technical Issues: Reliable internet access and compatible devices are crucial for effective online learning. Technical issues and poor connections can hinder the learning experience.
• Limited Hands-on Learning: Certain subjects, such as practical or hands-on courses, are more challenging to teach online, as they require physical classrooms and equipment.

Advantages of In-Person Teaching

• Discussions and Interactions: In-person classes facilitate better discussions, role-playing activities, and live conversations, enhancing effective communication and active learning communities.
• Community and Connections: Face-to-face interactions build stronger relationships and community connections, positively impacting mental health and reducing stress and anxiety.
• Distraction-Free Environment: Traditional classrooms are designed for learning, offering fewer distractions and a dedicated space to focus.
• Supervision and Motivation: Teachers can more effectively supervise, motivate, and encourage students in person, providing valuable feedback and support.

Disadvantages of In-Person Teaching

• Limited Accessibility: In-person classes may not always be accessible to all students due to geographical, financial, or socio-economic constraints.
• Schedule Constraints: Students have less flexibility with class schedules, commute times, and locations, which can clash with other responsibilities.
• Cost: In-person learning tends to be more expensive due to overhead costs and additional expenses such as accommodation and dining.
• Anxiety and Comfort: Some students may feel intimidated or uncomfortable speaking out in front of their peers, affecting their participation and engagement.

The Impact of COVID-19 on University Education

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted university education, with many institutions shifting to online learning to ensure student safety. During the pandemic, universities adopted a staggered approach to resuming in-person teaching, prioritizing practical courses and students who required access to facilities and equipment on campus. While online learning was a necessary alternative, the lack of physical interaction and hands-on learning posed challenges, especially for courses requiring laboratory work or practical training.

Both online learning and in-person teaching have their advantages and disadvantages. The effectiveness of each approach depends on various factors, including the student's unique situation, learning style, and preferences. While online learning offers accessibility and flexibility, in-person teaching fosters community, engagement, and supervision. Ultimately, the decision between the two should consider the specific needs and goals of the student, ensuring they receive a quality education that best suits their circumstances.

Student accommodation refunds

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on student accommodation, with many students having to leave their accommodation and return home due to campus closures and travel restrictions. As a result, there have been widespread calls for student accommodation refunds, particularly from private accommodation providers.

In Ireland, the Union of Students has petitioned private Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) providers, such as ISA Accommodation Dublin, Uninest, Aparto, and Athlone Student Rooms, to refund students for accommodation they were unable to use due to the pandemic. Many private firms have refused to provide refunds, despite students having to leave abruptly for various reasons, including self-isolation, caring for vulnerable family members, and border closures. The Union of Students in Ireland and its members are calling on these companies to show compassion and prioritize students' health and well-being during this challenging period.

Some universities and colleges have agreed to provide refunds or flexible solutions for vacated on-campus accommodation. For example, the University of Limerick in Ireland initially refused to refund accommodation costs but eventually agreed to do so. The University of York in the UK released students from their third-term contracts without penalty and encouraged private housing providers in the city to offer similar flexibility.

The accommodation refunds for students in private accommodation are more complex and depend on individual contractual arrangements. Students in private accommodation are typically on fixed-term contracts, and any refunds would need to be negotiated with private landlords, which can be challenging without a break clause. In the UK, the National Union of Students (NUS) recommends that students in this situation get in touch with accommodation advisors or seek advice from Citizens Advice to help with negotiations.

During the pandemic, some private student accommodation providers have offered limited concessions, such as rent freezes, early contract releases, or full or partial refunds. However, these offers have been inconsistent and insufficient, with some providers requiring students to find replacement tenants to get a refund or only offering refunds on deposits and unused utility costs.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the inequalities and issues within student housing, with high rents and limited financial support pushing many students into hardship. While some governments have provided mortgage holidays for landlords and increased benefits for certain groups, students often fall outside the eligibility criteria for these schemes. The pandemic has also disrupted the higher education sector's finances, particularly for universities relying on international student fees and private funding. This financial strain on universities may further complicate accommodation refund requests from students.

Student mental health

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health of students, who already constitute a vulnerable demographic. The closure of campuses, cancellation of classes, and the need to adhere to lockdown measures and social distancing norms have disrupted students' routines and support systems, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and anxiety.

The National College Health Assessment indicates that around one in four students suffers from a diagnosable mental illness, while a much larger proportion report feeling overwhelmed or very lonely. These feelings may be intensified by the pandemic's impact on their daily lives, including the shift to online learning and the loss of social connections and extracurricular activities.

To address these challenges, students can take several proactive measures to protect their mental health and enhance their psychological resilience:

• Exercise: Engaging in physical activities like yoga, dancing, or home workouts can have a positive impact on mental health. Online resources, such as the UK National Health Service exercise website, can provide guidance in this area.
• Sleep: Getting a good night's sleep is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. Reducing screen time and media consumption before bed can help improve sleep patterns, especially for those anxious about COVID-19.
• Nutrition: The stress and changes in routine during the pandemic may disrupt eating habits. Students should be mindful of their nutrition and try to maintain regular, healthy meals to support their mental health.
• Social Connection: Social interaction is vital for positive mental health. Students can explore mediated forms of social activity, such as online book clubs, talk radio programs, or language exchange programs, to stay connected and engaged.
• Counselling: With some in-person counselling services suspended, students can turn to online counselling platforms like Keep.meSAFE, which offers 24/7 access to licensed counsellors via telephone or online chat.
• Spiritual Practices: Private religious activities, such as prayer, or spiritual practices like meditation and mindfulness, can provide comfort and enhance mental resilience during challenging times.

Additionally, universities have a crucial role in supporting student mental health. They can provide access to on-campus support services, such as counselling or mental health campaigns, and ensure that students are aware of these resources. Universities can also offer dedicated mental health training for staff and work collaboratively with health sectors to address mental health concerns effectively.

The impact of Covid on campus life

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on campus life, disrupting nearly every aspect of student life. From social interactions to education and mental health, the effects of the pandemic have been far-reaching and long-lasting.

One of the most noticeable changes has been the shift to online learning. Lectures, which used to bring large groups of students together, have moved to virtual platforms like Zoom and Teams. This change has also affected access to resources, as libraries—a cornerstone of campus life—have largely remained closed or operated with limited capacity. The pandemic has also disrupted in-person teaching, with many institutions offering only essential in-person contact hours for practical courses. These measures have had a significant impact on the social aspect of campus life, with students missing out on extracurricular activities, sporting events, and social gatherings that are integral to the university experience.

The pandemic has also taken a toll on students' mental health. Studies have shown that female students, in particular, experienced higher levels of anxiety, depression, and fear of contracting COVID-19. Undergraduate students also reported higher levels of depression than their graduate counterparts. The stress and uncertainty of the pandemic, changes in lifestyle and financial status, reduced social interaction, and challenges in accessing resources have all contributed to the decline in mental health among students.

Additionally, the pandemic has created financial burdens for students, especially those who had to shell out thousands of pounds for accommodation they couldn't live in. While some universities offered rent rebates and financial assistance, the impact on students' finances has been significant.

The effects of COVID-19 on campus life have been unprecedented and have forced students and educational institutions to adapt to a new normal. While there is hope for a return to pre-pandemic campus life, the lasting impact of the pandemic on the higher education system and student experiences cannot be understated.

Frequently asked questions