Student resources during COVID-19

As we enter spring break, I wanted to share some important resources as our campuses transition to online classes. 

This change to our daily lives – and the whole country – may feel overwhelming. We’ll get through it together and so we wanted to offer some information for students who may be especially struggling to adjust to this major transition. 

As you are most likely aware, UT Austin has extended it’s spring break an additional week and will resume classes on March 30th. 

Here are a few resources to turn to if you need them:

1. The residence halls, dining halls and libraries will remain open so that students can access food, shelter and resources provided by the university. Students should continue to implement social distancing procedures. Check out the UT Dining Services page for updated spring break dining hours. 

2. UT has suspended their shuttle services through the extended spring break. Students can ride all of Cap Metro buses for free using their ID and should check out their trip planning service to find alternate routes. 

3. UT Outpost, the on-campus food pantry will be closed during the extended spring break. If a student has emergency food needs they can contact Student Emergency Services at 512-471-5017 or [email protected]

4. Many professors will be teaching fully online for the first time, so be patient with them as they work out new systems for class. If you and your professor need help adapting online learning to your specific needs, reach out to Disability Services at [email protected] 

5. The Counseling and Mental Health Center is continuing to offer services over spring break but is only offering individual counseling over the phone. See their website for a full list of their changes. 

6. We shop online all the time – and it’s really tempting to use it more when we’re all staying home. But, some retailers on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Amazon may be raising prices on essentials like Purell to take advantage of the panic. Check out our investigative report with the Wall Street Journal and how to spot and report price gouging here.

Like our school, we’re taking this emergency seriously. We’ve moved our events and meetings online, and our whole team is working from home. But we’ll get through this, together.

PS:  If you’d like to get involved online with social media campaign actions, please reach out!