UW, Laurier discouraging students from traveling during reading week

It's that time of year again for university students: reading week.

But during a global pandemic, both the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University aren't fans of anyone traveling, but are out with messaging for students, knowing some will be hitting the road anyway.

For Laurier, it's all about following public health guidelines and being good citizens, no matter where you spend the break.

“Reading week is an important part of the school year, it's a good mental health break,” said Ivan Joseph, the vice-president of student affairs at Laurier, “It's good to get out of just studying, but we want you to be safe when you come back to our campus.”

If you're staying in town, Joseph said residences are still open and staffed.

Both schools are encouraging anyone who is leaving, to self-quarantine for 10-14 days before returning, though the request isn't mandated.

At UW, President and Vice-Chancellor Feridun Hamdullahpur is taking a hard stance against any kind of travel.

“I understand, many of us feel fed up and tired of these restrictions,” he said, “But unnecessary travel will put people at risk and we must not let our guard down.”

If you're on campus, and need access to supports for COVID-19, they are being made available.

CLICK HERE for more on UW's messaging for reading week.