Classes start at University of South Florida with COVID-19 protocols in place

TAMPA, Fla. - The first day of school has arrived for University of South Florida students and officials say they are prepared for a full in-person return. Because of the surging number of COVID-19 cases, restrictions are still in place.

"I’m going to do my best precautions, like in class have my mask on just to keep myself and other people safe," said Zachary Slutsky, a senior from Vero Beach. "But doing stuff like this, playing spike ball with my friends, I’m not going to worry about it, just have fun."

Rules from the state university system strongly urge or expect students to wear masks and be vaccinated, but neither the shot nor the mask is required. The university has been hosting weekly vaccination clinics at all of its campuses. 

Masks will be available on campus for anyone who needs one. Free, voluntary COVID-19 testing will be available on all USF campuses. Face coverings will be required for all individuals in health care settings, including Student Health Services, the Counseling Center and USF Health clinics. 

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Angelina Patania, a freshman from New Jersey, says most people wore masks in her first, in-person class Monday.

"There were about 200 people in there and it just felt normal again," said the 18-year-old. "I was really happy to be in there."

She says she feels freer in Florida than in New Jersey. 

"The masks aren’t mandated," she said. "I think it’s great. You have the option. If you want to wear one or you don’t want to."

But the president of USF’s faculty senate, Timothy Boaz, says the plan to return to campus was put together before the delta variant arrived. He says there is anxiety among faculty members, particularly those who have elderly parents at home. 

"It doesn’t make sense to go back to the classroom," said Boaz. 

There is also concern among students who are happy to be back but worried about what may come next. 

"I think the numbers are going to go way up, which is bad," said Hannah Clifford, a freshman from Tampa. I hope the classes don’t go online again. Because I hated that."

Everyone is hoping not to repeat last year.

"It was completely dead," said sophomore Rem Saidly. "But, now it's so lively to see. I’m excited." 

Excitement is nothing new on campus, but the virus that they hoped would be last year’s news, is still a worry.

"Yes, I’m worried about that because I don’t want it to go all online, I like it in person in the room, so hopefully not because I don’t want that," Saidly said.

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Students at the University of Tampa still have another week until they return to their campus. Their first day is next Monday. UT also won't be requiring vaccines on campus, but masks will be required in all indoor buildings, regardless of vaccine status. The only exception is eating, drinking, or if someone is exercising or taking part in sports.

Monday was also the first day for USF's new interim president Rhea Law. She replaces Dr. Steve Currall, who resigned for health and personal reasons.