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Return to Learn Weekly, from UC San Diego

June 8, 2022

In Case You Missed It

Congratulations, Graduates!

We are immensely proud of everything you have accomplished, and we know that you will make a difference wherever your path leads. We look forward to celebrating with you this weekend at Commencement. In advance of the big day, there are a few reminders we’d like to share.

COVID-19 Requirements for Commencement

The health and safety of graduates and their guests is our top priority. To ensure a safe experience for all, please consider the following:
  • All participants, regardless of age, should be fully vaccinated (two doses plus booster) or have had a negative COVID-19 test result within 24 hours prior to the ceremony. Testing with UC San Diego specifically is not required.
  • Guests may be required to complete a symptom screening upon entry.
  • Masking is strongly recommended, particularly indoors and in areas where distancing is not possible or where large crowds are present.

Now Available: Rapid Antigen Tests

Before you begin packing for that long-awaited summer trip, consider picking up a rapid antigen test at one of the campus locations below. These test kits can help you determine if you should seek further PCR testing if symptoms of COVID-19 emerge. All students and campus employees can access up to two free tests this month with their campus card at the following locations:
Basic Needs Hub, Student Center
Monday and Friday: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Campus Curbside, Gilman Parking Structure
Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A woman steadying her surf board on the water as she begins to paddle out to a wave at La Jolla Shores beach.

Summer Safety

According to the San Diego County News Center, weekly average coronavirus cases have more than tripled in the past 30 days. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions are also up. The good news is that each individual has many options when it comes to protecting themselves and their loved ones. These include masking when indoors and in crowded outdoor areas and testing if feeling unwell.
Research from the CDC has shown that COVID-19 deaths are higher among those who are over the age of 65 and undervaccinated. Those 50 and older, and those who are severely immunocompromised, are encouraged to get a second booster four months after their initial booster. In addition, boosters are available in San Diego County for ages five through 11. 
Resources
UC San Diego booster information and appointments
UC San Diego COVID-19 Daily Dashboard
San Diego County booster information and appointments
San Diego County COVID-19 Daily Dashboard

Upcoming Town Halls

Faculty and Research Town Hall

Thursday, June 16 at 1:30 p.m.
Staff Town Hall
Thursday, July 14 at 10 a.m.

Your Questions Answered

Question: I am a recent graduate and keep getting a red thumb on the daily symptom and exposure screener. How can I ensure that I will be able to attend commencement?
Answer: As you may know, all students and guests may be required to complete a symptom screening upon entry to Commencement events. Current students may complete the online daily symptom and exposure screening. Guests and recent graduates may participate in a verbal screening. 
Question: I am not feeling well and have COVID-19 symptoms. Can I still attend Commencement?
Answer: Individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive for infection with SARS-CoV-2 should remain at home.
For the safety and wellbeing of our entire community, we should all take preventative and proactive steps in protecting each other and ourselves. By isolating when we have symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive, we can prevent spreading the virus to our peers, friends and family.
To tune into Commencement online, a livestream of each ceremony held at RIMAC Field or RIMAC Arena will be available on the Commencement 2022 website, beginning June 11, at 9 a.m.
Question: Why should I continue to mask after vaccination?
Answer: We encourage anyone who feels more comfortable continuing to wear a mask to do so, as masking remains one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the spread of the virus.
The CDC has shared that masking is a critical public health tool and it is important to remember that any mask is better than no mask. Wearing a well-fitted mask along with vaccination, COVID-19 testing, and physical distancing, helps protect you and others by reducing the chance of spreading COVID-19.
More information on masks are available on the CDC website.
To learn more, visit the Return to Learn Questions & Answers page.
If you have specific questions or would like to submit feedback about the Return to Learn program, please email rtl@ucsd.edu.
University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093
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