The Collegian

The education abroad program at Kansas State came to a halt in March 2020. Since then, there has been a careful planning process to ensure the safe return of international learning.

Students share what they are most excited for this semester as classes and activities return to in-person format.

Following the CDC's recommendation that vaccinated individuals resume mask-wearing in public indoor spaces, K-State announced that all campuses will require face masks starting Aug. 3.

Less than seven weeks from the start of the fall semester, Kansas State reached a 72 percent COVID-19 vaccination rate for at least one dose, eclipsing the national goal of 70 percent.

Effective immediately, masks and social distancing are no longer required for students, faculty, staff or visitors.

With many travel restrictions and other COVID-19 precautions starting to expire, students are taking advantage of a semi-ordinary summer.

Steven Parker, freshman in supply chain management, does not know what a typical finals week looks like on campus, and he's not alone. Most freshmen, along with many transfer students, haven't experienced in-person finals since starting at K-State.

As K-State moves through phases of the university reopening plan, students and faculty voice their pandemic struggles and what they look forward to in the fall.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many students' plans last summer by forcing employers to cancel, postpone or move student internships and jobs.