Spring 2021 semester begins at CBU

Riverside, Calif. (Jan. 26, 2021) – California Baptist University kicked off the spring 2021 semester on Jan. 25.

CBU delayed the start of the spring semester by two weeks due to a surge of the COVID-19 pandemic in the southern California region. Classes for the semester will continue to be held primarily through live/synchronous remote instruction.

A drive-thru check-in on Jan. 22 welcomed new students and gave them their welcome packet and other needed materials. New and returning students also moved in that day.

The virtual Welcome Weekend experience featured fun and important information. Videos provided information on topics such as academics, campus offices, Athletics and Spiritual Life.

New students will also participate in First-Year Experience groups, which will help them adapt to campus life, beginning Jan. 27. Gavin Andrew, director of First-Year Experience, said it is still important for the students to feel connected to the campus.

“Connecting with the campus and each other is more challenging due to COVID. However, challenging is not impossible,” Andrew said. “What students put into it really can dictate their experience. We want to help students identify resources that are available to them as Lancers whether they’re on campus or home. We also want to share with them what the campus offers when we’re back to a more normal scenario, so they have things to look forward to.”

Mariah Gonzalez, an early childhood studies junior and a transfer student, said she chose CBU because of the reputation of the school and the Christian community.

“I’ve heard all good things from CBU and I’m a Christian and I value the community here,” Gonzalez said. “The campus is so beautiful, and my professors are very organized so I’m very excited for classes to start.”

Kierna McCallum, a psychology freshman who returned to her campus housing, said she loves living on campus.

“I made a really great group of friends who I absolutely love hanging out with,” McCallum said. “I made a lot of memories on campus. I am really looking forward to the community and my classes. I am also looking forward to making new friends.”