Students are heading back to college, which includes Syracuse University, but the delta variant of the coronavirus is raising some concern. The protocols at SU aren’t as strict as last year, but there are still some restrictions in place.

“I was really proud of our students last year for all that they did to work through the COVID protocols we had in place and follow them and still make the best of that academic year, so I really do trust that our student population is going to continue to do that as we move into this academic year and make the most of the time that they have together,” said Carrie Abbott, director of New Student and Family Programs at SU.

There are about 4,000 first-year students who began moving in Tuesday morning.  

Masks are required for everyone during move in. For this year, the school has implemented a tiered system, so masking is determined on the severity of the COVID-19 spread. Right now, the campus is at a “blue” level, which is the third most restrictive out of four levels.

Anyone who is unvaccinated must wear masks inside and around others. Anyone who is vaccinated must wear masks during class, and they’re recommended when around other people or outside in groups.

There will will be more group activities this week during move in and throughout the fall semester. The dining halls are open. Students can visit each other’s dorms. Fans will be allowed back in the Carrier Dome.

“I’m really excited for the students to be together and be together in person,” said Abbott. “The first semester of college is so important for you to make friends and get connected to the university, and that was really difficult for the students to do with the COVID protocols from last year.”

SU is one of the most vaccinated campuses in the country, according to the chancellor. About 96% of students, faculty and staff are vaccinated, so they won’t be doing as much testing this year.