Students Move Back To Campus At Oral Roberts University

Students are back on campus at Oral Roberts University. Freshmen moved into their dorms over the weekend and today it's the upperclassmen's turn.

ORU said nearly 2,000 students are choosing to live on campus this year.

The university has lifted many of its pandemic protocols from last year but told News On 6 safety is still a top priority.

So what will campus life be like? Educators said close to normal.

"I love being around everybody. Super fun. I'm excited to start my studies. Ready to work really hard,” said Rese Harder.

Rese Harder is an incoming freshman at Oral Roberts University. Harder said he's ready for new beginnings and the old normal.

"It's nice being around people and actually seeing their beautiful faces,” said Harder.

Student Body President Atalie Winfred said ORU focuses on each students' mind, body and spirit.

"We want to make sure that we're attending to their needs. Listening to what they want this year,” said Winfred.

ORU said it's welcoming one of its largest incoming classes to date. News On 6 was told even international student enrollment is up this year.

“It's been great to see that borders have been open and embassies have been able to approve emergency visas,” said Alison Vujnovic, Assistant VP of Enrollment Management for Residential Students.

Dr. Dean Prentice is the Associate Professor of Health Sciences. He said cleaning high-touch areas is a priority.

"Common living areas, restrooms, dining facilities. Our dining facility staff are all wearing masks,” said Dr. Prentice.

ORU is offering free car rides for students who want to get the vaccine and free on-campus COVID-19 tests.

There are designated quarantine and isolation rooms, and in-person and online classes are available.

Dr. Prentice said masks aren't required.

“Honor is doing it even if it's something you don't want to do,” said Dr. Prentice.

That's the focus of freshmen orientation: learning to respect your professors and peers.

“Do you have to have a mandate to honor somebody? And the answer is no," said Dr. Prentice.

ORU said it's not too late to apply and scholarships are still available. The fall semester begins Thursday.