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Seton Hall allows graduates to take pictures near University Seal, Walsh Library
While the class of 2020 awaits more information about their promised in-person commencement, graduating seniors will have the opportunity to take graduation photos on campus until May 24.
Graduates hoping to take photos on campus in South Orange can sign up for thirty minute time slots via Microsoft Bookings in an effort to maintain social distancing. The first time slots were available on May 15.
“While we still have physical distancing procedures in place, we welcome you to return to campus to take some graduation photos and videos,” the University said in an email to students on Thursday.
Only four people will be allowed to accompany graduates on campus according to the University’s website, but it is unclear how this social distancing rule will be enforced.
“The University is following all health and safety guidelines including Public Safety/Students using the booking system,” University spokesperson Laurie Pine said.
There are two locations listed as available for photos: the University Green and Walsh Library. Graduates are permitted to sign up for one 30-minute time slot per location, according to the University’s website.
Taina Vasquez, who is graduating with a degree in criminal justice, faced some issues with the booking system.
“I think it was a good system but there were some glitches when I was looking for a time,” said Vasquez. “I would have appreciated more time to take pictures considering the weather for all of next week is supposed to be rainy and these pictures are outside.”
University Spokesperson Laurie Pine acknowledged that technical difficulties may have occurred, but confirms that there was “plenty of availability left” as of Sunday.
Rob Ruszkowski, a graduating visual and sound media major planned to take pictures when stay-at-home orders were relaxed, but is now considering signing up for a time slot.
“Personally, I think the reservation system is a noble effort to prevent too many students and family members from gathering in the same place at the same time, but I do not think it will be effective,” Ruszkowski said, pointing out that many parents and students may disregard their appointed times due to weather. “Hopefully students and families will still use common sense and practice safe social distancing if there does happen to be a line at any one spot.”
