CLIMATE CHECK

Sophomore senator Donya Ahmadi started off this week’s climate check by mentioning that she witnessed a few students huddled into a corner in the library without masks. Junior Chief of Staff Noor Rahman responded to Senator Ahmadi’s concern by mentioning the library’s efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These efforts include an hourly announcement reminding students to wear a mask and do routine walkthroughs. Senior SGA President Jaelen Harris suggested that students hold their friends accountable.

Senator Ahmadi also brought up student concerns relating to professors ending Zoom classes 10 minutes later than the end of the class period. In response to Senator Ahmadi, President Harris suggested that students allow their professors a ‘grace period’ since they are still adjusting to technology and online teaching. Junior Vice President Oliver Chapin-Eiserloh suggested that if students notice their professors have lost track of time, to gently remind the professor by speaking up.

SPRING HOUSING

Advisor David Tuttle asked for SGA’s honest feedback on priority housing for the spring. He says nothing is determined yet, but their planning for the spring must begin early in order to prepare Residential Life. The consensus seemed to be that seniors and first-years should be priorities in the spring, but choosing one over the other seems to be harmful either way.

Junior Senator Nasim Salehitezangi said we should consider how seniors would feel not being allowed back on campus for their final year after committing so much time to the university. She added, however, that first-years should also be accommodated and considered as well. Sophomore Senator Sol Rivas-Lopes suggested that prioritizing first-years is important since they aren’t receiving the traditional first-year experience, and therefore may feel underwhelmed. Senator Rivas-Lopes also emphasized the importance of prioritizing international students after in order to assure they aren’t in danger of being deported.

STUDENT ACTIVITY FEE

Advisor Tuttle started a discussion about whether students would prefer to see their student activity fee go to big or small outreach efforts. He said, for instance, if 500 students attend a concert that cost $50,000 to put together, those who don’t attend don’t get to see their activity fee be put to use. Sophomore Senator Sarah Pita said that unless students are involved in smaller clubs that receive the fee, students aren’t going to see those dollars at all. At least with large-scale events, she said, students are made aware that they have the option to attend events.