It is the first week of classes for many colleges in the Rochester area, and around the country, who are now adjusting this semester to the changes because of the pandemic.

Tyrke Chin and Miguel Rodriguez are studying at RIT, coming to Rochester from Queens and the Bronx. They’re here for the renowned engineering education, and for the college experience, which they admit is a bit different.

What You Need To Know

  • College students at RIT are adjusting as they work to juggle varying formats of instruction

  • Some students are worried about the effect the virus will have on the semester, as a few positive cases could result in completely remote classes

  • Many students also hope that the classes will continue to be held in the classroom and on campus, as it is more interactive

“Classes are kind of chaotic, so it’s like in person, online, in person, online, like in that order," said Chin.

“It was a whole different thing coming in, so, but I’m glad I’m here, so it’s good," said Rodriguez. 

Students are getting acclimated these first few days of classes, getting their schedules, books at the book store, and getting to know each other.

A bit trickier with the varying formats of instruction.

“Things have been like changing constantly," said Dennis Santos-Sanchez of Watertown. "Classes can be a bit confusing because sometimes you have to be in class, sometimes you’re online. Depends on which class, like some classes are blended where it’s like half and half, half in-class, half online. Some people have classes that are completely online and some classes are completely in person.”

Although RIT has given no indication of a shutdown, and said earlier this week that tests showed low infection rates for incoming students and employees, it is the biggest fear for students.

“That somebody is going to ruin it for everybody, so somebody’s not going to be protective and bring it to a class and it’s gonna shut everything down," said Rodriguez. 

“If they close, I’m gonna be pretty sad," said Chin. "Cause I took a six-hour drive to come here to learn in person because I don’t like doing the online classes and stuff so. I want the interactive in-person learning even if I have to stay six feet away, wear the mask on.”

Many of those students Spectrum News spoke with say while they do expect there could be more changes, they do hope that the classes will continue to be held in the classroom and on campus.