Q&A Series: Commuter Students Can Access Campus Spaces, But Not Residence Halls

The Commuter Student Council provided an in-depth overview of what commuters can expect from Marist’s reopening in the upcoming fall semester. 

Colin McCann, the associate director for First Year Programs & Leadership Development and advisor for the Commuter Student Council answered 45 minutes worth of questions in the live Q&A Series on WebEx. The session also included input from the Commuter Student Council representative, Samantha Musso ‘22. 

First Year Programs are being planned, and specific information for both residential and commuter students will be communicated; however, most of the information, including welcomes, resources and social interaction, will be applicable to all students. Before school starts, incoming commuter students should receive an email and a welcome letter. The bookstore will be open and ID cards will be available on Monday, August 10. 

One of the primary concerns of commuter students was coming to campus. Prior to starting school, all students are required to be tested. For commuter students, testing should occur between August 1-14. Commuter students will be self-assessing their health each time they come to campus; any issues will be addressed from there. McCann said this will become part of their morning routine, and the campus community will experience more monitoring.

Commuter students are expected to register for parking each year; however, they will be mailed their permits this year. Freshmen will be allowed to bring cars to school, with extra parking available at Conklin Hall and Dutchess Community College. With the cancellation of fall sports, the closed McCann Center will invite less traffic; students should still practice good time management because many of their peers will be considering similar options, McCann said. Commuters should have the same access to parking lots as previous years. 

Commuters will be able to use the dining hall in the same capacity as other students. For those considering meal plans, a smaller meal plan is recommended.

McCann said students may contact Toni Constantino, manager for online programs, if they would like an entirely online class schedule.

The Commuter Lounge on the ground floor of the Murray Student Center will be open during the semester, but spaces on campus will be refitted with less capacity due to social distancing regulations. Lounges in academic buildings are also options for indoor spaces. A list of spaces will soon be provided. 

There is no expectation for commuter students to stay home, even if their classes are not in person that day. The campus is open, and commuter students will have access to the school’s offerings. The exception will be residence halls, where commuter students are not permitted. Residents face similar visitation restrictions, and they will be limited to their own residence halls. 

During the session, people were encouraged to review the college’s reopening plan, especially the Frequently Asked Questions page. Further inquiries about the Commuter Student Council or questions about commuter students in general can be directed to Colin McCann at colin.mccann@marist.edu. Questions about fall reopening in general can be sent to fallreopening@marist.edu or the dedicated hotline at (845) 575-4100. 

Source: Sydney Kysar