By Macey-Marie Hobson

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is working tirelessly to provide a smooth transition into the upcoming fall semester. 

As a student, you may have questions such as what to pack, what to wear and what will you do? UAB Student Affairs departments and organizations are working to answer those questions.

When returning to campus here are a few things to keep in mind

• Pack minimally for ease in moving in and out.
• Add hand sanitizer, wipes, bathroom cleaners with bleach and soap to your packing list.
• Bring four to six paper cloth masks with you.
• Be patient, flexible and kind.

“What should I bring with me to campus?” Here’s what your orientation leaders suggest…

Sean Martin 

Senior, Biomedical Sciences

“I would encourage students to bring extension cords. As someone who has many devices that require charging, it’s an absolute must to bring for any student.”

Shelby Rankin 

Sophomore, Biology

“For dorm rooms, I recommend bringing kitchen size trashcans, things to make your room feel like home, a laptop charger, umbrella, disinfectant wipes if possible and an extra mask to be safe.” 

Gracie Meyer

Junior, Biomedical Sciences

“Definitely bring more masks and keep them in your backpack, car and in your dorm room. If you’re going to be living on campus I recommend bringing reusable packing items such as plastic bins just in case we have to transition off campus again. The more disinfectant items the better!”

Katherine Njau

Sophomore, Economics and Political Science

“Keep hand sanitizer on you at all times and bring extra masks.”

Students can look forward to Blazer Welcome week. “Things are still being worked out,” says Jessica Brown, assistant director of Student Activities. “But once everything is confirmed students can visit  www.uab.edu/blazerwelcome for events and activities that will take place August 23 through September 19.”

Blazer Welcome is a programming series created to help new UAB students get connected to campus and all it has to offer during the first four weeks.

Events hosted during Blazer Welcome will include Connect Fest, WelcomeCon and other activities hosted by various departments and student organizations across campus. The details and links to these events will be added to the Blazer Welcome schedule under the “View Events” tab once we start allowing areas to submit their events. 

Another event that will take place is “Got a Question? Ask A Blazer!” This is an annual initiative led by Student Affairs and Enrollment Management that provides students with easy access to support and guidance on the first few days of classes. 

"For students requesting temporary adjustments based on the impact of COVID-19 UAB Disability Support Services (DSS) has established a process for these requests referred to as, ‘COVID-19 Related Temporary Adjustments,’" says Jenna Robie DSS program coordinator. “On the DSS website there is a section titled 'Request COVID-19 Temporary Adjustments' where students can read the process and click to complete an application. For more information regarding the COVID-19 Temporary Adjustment Form, students can contact us at dss@uab.edu.”

Dr. Mary Wallace, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President for Student Experience 

“We have been preparing for your arrival on campus for Fall 2020. Though your college experience may look a little different, it is important to stay engaged both inside and outside of the classroom,” says Dr. Wallace. “Many of our activities and events will be held virtually. In-person events will be held, as it is safe to do so. Check out the Engage platform for all of our student events. 

“Our number one priority is your safety during these times. We encourage you to socialize, but to do it in safe ways, making sure to wear your mask and keep six feet of physical distance between individuals. Reach out to friends, family members and faculty/staff during this time. UAB is a unique community. We will do this together, and emerge as a strong community, filled with support and opportunities for our students. Go Blazers!”

For more information regarding campus reentry visit www.uab.edu/coronavirus/reentry and follow @UABStudents for the latest university announcements.