Operation Move-In 2022

Back to (almost) normal move-in!

Fall Move-In 2022 was another in a long line of annual events that successfully welcomed students to our communities. It was a refreshing return to the more normal pre-COVID days. Gone were mandatory Student Health administered COVID tests before receiving keys (self-testing was still required prior to coming to campus and after moving in), and masks were voluntary (but encouraged.) After two years of not having a regular move-in, it was exciting despite the need to still have COVID health clearance requirements.

Primarily managed by Residential & Community Living in partnership with team members from across HDAE, new areas from the auxiliaries joined in to help make it a success. A special shout out to the Campus Store for the amazing contingent of helpful staff that participated. Another move-in first was the inclusion of two Santa Barbara trolleys transporting people to and from long-term parking… they were a hit! Thank you to Chris Zbinden of Transportation & Parking Services for the awesome idea! 

Another significant addition was the utilization of the new UCSB Map. The HDAE MarCom Team embraced the new interface and jumped on board full throttle for Move-In 2022. Incoming students and their families were directed to the new map via a QR code that was distributed widely through various print, web, and digital materials. Move-in route QR codes were scanned more than 4000 times, exposing the map to many people. The integrative move-in experience provided links to residence halls and apartments with step-by-step instructions to follow, as well as information about parking, shuttle stops, and where to grab a bite to eat or buy new sheets. This contributed to a smooth move-in experience, and was great news from a sustainability standpoint - no more printed maps! 

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback about your experience via the debrief survey. The move-in team has already reviewed the results and will incorporate your suggestions in order to continue to perfect the process for next year.

Move-in is the beginning of a student’s journey at UCSB – thank you for your partnership and support, and for helping students and their families start this new chapter in their lives with a smooth, positive, and memorable experience. Your efforts were very much appreciated based on the multiple complimentary comments we received on social media. Go team!