by Ranjie Nocete
After two years of online-distance learning, the Student Housing and Residence Division (SHRD) opened reservations for temporary online dormitory accommodations in preparation for the upcoming limited face-to-face (F2F) classes in the midyear term and the first semester of the school year.
According to Krystal Matus, the Silliman University Student Government Dorm Life Committee Chairperson, the SHRD will prioritize graduating college students and those in health-allied courses considering their graduating processes and internships.
The university currently has 15 dorm halls and cooperatives which can accommodate more than 700 students. However, Edith Carson Hall for women and Pulido Hall and Doltz Hall for men will be used for the midyear term starting May 11 to June 3.
Matus said that the dorms have been limited to 50% of their capacity to ensure social distancing and less contact with people.
Once the dormitories reach 50% capacity, other dormitories will open to accommodate more students. According to SHRD head Princeton Apura, “All dormitories, regular and cooperative, are now being prepared to open and accept residents for the first semester SY 2022-2023 for all levels.”
To make temporary online reservations, Apura said that the following must be secured: a recent medical certificate from the SU Clinic, notarized waiver, notarized application, signed commitment, and an initial payment of P5,000. A soft copy of these documents must be submitted to the SHRD office and the original hard copy to the dormitory manager.
He added that parents or students must send an email first, signifying intention to apply, before the SHRD office will provide forms.
Apura then expressed how the pandemic affected dormitory life. “Dormitory life has been very different now compared to when residents were here in person and no restrictions to our face-to-face activities. We still have the usual weekly devotions but no longer have a joint devotion and larger fellowship among dormitory residents because of restrictions,” he ended.
