‘They really stepped up’: Campus community helps Augusta University students complete move-in

A week later than had originally been planned, the last of the first-year students at Augusta University are settled in their new homes for the fall semester.

With the help of plenty of volunteers, including students, faculty and staff, move-in day on Saturday, Aug. 19, wrapped up the process for the new AU students.

Three apartment complexes and four hotels are being utilized to house about 400 students for the fall semester as renovation work at Oak Hall continues.

The students were grouped closely together according to majors as much as possible. Many honors students are living in units at The Row Apartments.

President Brooks A. Keel, PhD, indicated it was intentional to get those with similar majors together.

“We really did try to put students in each area that have similar majors to try to form educational living communities,” said Keel. “I’ve already spoken to three or four students; they’re all biology majors, which kind of gives you an idea. They’ll be bumping into each other at the shuttle stops and those sorts of things. It’s all about that community and that engagement piece, and we’ve gone the extra mile to try to make this as convenient as we can, given the circumstances.”

Routine bus shuttles will help get the students to their classes and additions to the routes are already in place. Each off-campus location also has resident advisers to help assist students in making the college experience the best they possibly can.

We’re all moved in and ready for an incredible semester!

We are so happy to have you at Jaguar Nation!

This is the second year Marsha Russell has served as an RA. Since she was at University Village last year, this isn’t new to her.

“I’m kind of used to the off-campus feel. I’m excited to see what it’s going to look like for the freshmen,” said Russell.

Keel was pleased how the campus community stepped up when it was needed most.

“The volunteers for this move-in all came together across the entire university to make this work,” said Keel. “It also says a lot about the city of Augusta. These apartment complexes and hotels said yes, we’re going to help them and do whatever we need to do — they really stepped up.”