In the face of the COVID-19 outbreak, New Mexico State University Housing & Residential Life remains committed to assisting on-campus students with their living arrangements.
Over the last few weeks, Housing & Residential Life has reached out to each on-campus student to confirm occupancy and housing plans.
In a message to the campus community, NMSU interim Executive Director for Housing & Residential Life Ophelia Watkins said “these are unprecedented times. Your cooperation and patience is appreciated as we endeavor to serve you with a focus on the health and safety of residents and staff. Please understand you are our priority and we are doing everything we can to keep you safe.”
Students who did not have other housing arrangements were given the option to request staying in their current housing. Each proposal was reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Now, only approximately 700 residents remain on campus and are appropriately distanced in their various locations. Residents in single student housing are living in private spaces-no one is sharing rooms or bathrooms. Residents in student family housing are living with their family members as they were before this health crisis. Guests and visitors are not allowed in on-campus residence halls and apartments until further notice.
“We are trying to stay in constant contact with our residents since we understand that this is a tough time that everyone is going through,” said Alexandra Cockett, resident assistant for the Vista Del Monte apartments. “I believe that Housing is making changes in everything to ensure the safety of employees and residents alike. Although the changes were sudden and drastic, it has become clear that the precautions originally put in place are necessary to sustain life during the current global pandemic.”
Current dining options for residents include Taos dining hall in Corbett Center Student Union, Mix at Frenger Food Court and Panda Express. All dining options serve take-out only in compliance with New Mexico Department of Health requirements.
With classes being held online for the rest semester, residential events have moved online as well. Residents are encouraged to check their Aggie Life app for updated information on these upcoming activities.
Residents who left campus during the break and are interested in returning for their personal belongings are now required to follow specific protocols to ensure public health and well-being.
Following the scheduled time of entry to campus housing is essential as it will assist Housing & Residential Life in strictly limiting the number of people in any area at one time. It is critical that students follow instructions closely including using the express checkout process and not bringing guests or helpers into campus housing areas for moving.
Students no longer in campus housing with meal plans will receive a credit adjustment to their student account for unused Taos swipes and unused Aggie Dining Dollars. Residents who have been approved to remain on campus and have a meal plan may continue to utilize remaining Taos swipes and Aggie Dining Dollars.
Students who purchased a parking permit will receive a $35 credit adjustment to their parking account. The credit will be applied to any outstanding unpaid parking citations. Any remaining credit amount will be applied to the permit cost for fall 2020. If the student is not returning in the fall, a refund may be requested.
For more information or answers to other housing questions, contact NMSU Housing & Residential Life at 575-646-3202.