Random COVID-19 Testing Begins on Union College Campus

Union has introduced random COVID-19 testing. So what should one expect when getting a test? Last week’s article was a brief overview of Union’s COVID-19 policies once someone is exposed to it. This week is more focused on testing, where and how to get tested and what to expect. For some reason let’s assume a student needs testing, they either consented to random testing or have COVID-19 symptoms. There are two options: get tested at Gateway Mall, or get tested here at Union. Gateway Mall offers tests Monday through Saturday, while Union offers testing on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 

To get tested at Gateway, go online to Test Nebraska and fill out the questionnaire. You will then be given a list of testing sites, and then select Gateway Mall and scroll to the bottom of the page to pick a date. At your selected time and date, you will then take the confirmation email to the testing site. (For this you will need a car with windows that roll down, so if you have an old beater car like mine with windows that don’t work, Union might be your best bet!) They will scan the QR code in the email, then you proceed to the actual testing. A tester asks you to roll down your window and adjust your mask so that your nose is revealed, then they take something like a long q-tip and pushes it up your nose into the back of your nasal cavity. For many people this is mildly uncomfortable, but for some unfortunate people such as myself, it is very painful. 

Getting tested at Union is similar to the actual testing process, however the scheduling is different. According to an email sent out by Ryan Teller, “The Union College COVID-19 Testing Center is on the east side of Rees Hall across from the Campus Health office and is open from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Please complete [a form on uGroups] prior to your arrival to receive a personalized QR Code via email. You will be asked to show your personalized QR Code (printed or digitally) when you arrive at the testing site so that testing staff can correctly sync your information with your test.” Wherever you choose to get tested, thank you for doing your part to keep our community safe! 

Jade Covel is a Senior

Religion Major from

Topeka, Kansas