Rutgers logo
Rutgers logo
Rutgers logo
Rutgers logo

A Message to Off-Campus Students and Members of the Greek Community

March 12, 2020

Dear Off-Campus Students, Students Staying Off-Campus, and Members of the Greek Community:

We all have moral obligations to do everything that we can to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing is an effective and important individual step that we take to help meet that obligation. As a follow-up to the university’s decision to extend spring break and transition to virtual classes beginning on March 23rd, we are asking that students currently residing in off-campus rental housing give serious consideration to returning to their homes during the time that in-person classes are suspended. As you know, in-person classes are suspended at least until April 3rd, at which time a decision will be made regarding future in-person classes.

The goal of social distancing is to substantially decrease the number of situations requiring community members to be in groups and to minimize the time spent in close proximity to each other. With this in mind, we are also encouraging students living off-campus to refrain from hosting social gatherings that could lead to the transmission of COVID-19.

If you decide to return home you should:

  • Take with you any important items (laptop, books, identification cards, passport, medication, etc.).
  • Take enough clothing home with you.
  • Clean out refrigerator.
  • Empty all trash/recycle receptacles in proper disposal areas.
  • Close and lock all windows.
  • Set all thermostats to 68 degrees (if applicable).
  • Turn off all lights and electronics.
  • Close and lock doors.
  • Any items you will need with you when classes go online starting on Monday, March 23rd.

Although the university is not closed, it is likely that University food service and transportation may be reduced over the coming weeks. The Rutgers Student Food Pantry will remain open at this time (Mon-Fri 9-4 at 39 Union Street). Please check the food pantry social media (@RUFOODPANTRY) for any schedule adjustments as we move forward.

We apologize for any inconvenience as we all seek to minimize the impact of COVID-19. This is a global situation that requires individual attention by all of us.

If you have any questions related to your situation, call Off-Campus Living & Community Partnerships at 848-932-5500 or the Dean of Students Office at 848-932-2300. Members of the Greek Life community can call OFSA at 848-932-7692. To stay abreast of the latest updates regarding COVID-19, visit https://coronavirus.rutgers.edu/.

Division of Student Affairs