University of Utah students return to class on Monday, but some are still rushing to find on-campus housing in time. Over the past two months, the university has been working on a proposal that asks alumni to lodge undergrads for the upcoming academic year. The programme was covered by FOX 13 News last month. It aims to meet the University’s expanding demand for student accommodation.
Since then, the pilot programme has undergone significant revisions, including the number of children who will be able to take part this year. The office of alumni relations director, Bethany Hardwig, says the first objective was to match 100 sophomores, juniors, and seniors with alumni. It has now been reduced to 25. Hardwig said, “I genuinely feel that we could perform 100 per cent better if we had more time.
Hawrdwig claims that the initial objective wasn’t achieved because of rigorous screening. She does, however, add that there have been high points in the procedure, such as the level of community interest in taking part. “We received a lot of interest from hosts, “She stated. “Around 500 people got in touch.” Linda Dunn, a resident of Salt Lake City, is one of the authorised hosts.
Prior to accepting a housemate, Dunn says she will meet with them multiple times to determine if they are a good fit. Dunn said, “I was just receptive to it, maybe out of my own interest in people. However, I should also mention my background in communal and academic matters. She hopes that the interaction would foster a sense of neighbourhood among the children and Salt Lake City locals.
“Am I going to proceed with caution now? Absolutely. Do we have guidelines and requirements? Of course, “Added Dunn. “I sincerely hope that it will enable us to foster community at a time when we most need it. By Monday, university administrators intend to pair 25 students with alumni. Hardwig asserts that this objective might not be achieved until September.
