On January 23, the state of Georgia was threatened by a record-breaking weather system. In advance of the storm, GCSU strongly encouraged students to go home in order to ensure safety.

GCSU switched to asynchronous virtual learning on Monday, Jan. 26. The uncertainty of weather impacts left students to form their own opinions and make decisions regarding their safety and wellbeing during the rare weather event. 

After receiving nearly one inch of snow in the Milledgeville area on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, GCSU students braced themselves for a new threat: Winter Storm Fern. Meteorologists spoke of crippling ice, snow and freezing rain that could create dangers for the impacted areas. The impacts of this storm posed risks for fallen trees, power outages and transportation issues.

During this uncertain time, GCSU students chose to remain positive. They used their weekend to spend time with roommates, navigate online classes and find indoor activities to enjoy.

Haylee Rainer, a sophomore psychology major, shares about her experience with Winter Storm Fern. 

“I thought if anything, it was just going to rain a lot and maybe freeze overnight,” Rainer said. 

She elaborates on how she believed black ice would be the biggest danger due to the freezing temperatures and precipitation.

Rainer describes deciding to stay in Milledgeville over the weekend with her roommates.

“We baked, watched some movies, played some games and did some homework,” Rainer said.

The weather concerns spurred Georgia residents to stock up on groceries and necessities in preparation for the weather ahead. Georgia universities monitored the storms and made the necessary decision to alter class operations for Monday, Jan. 26. GCSU administration sent emails to students, faculty and staff, encouraging safety as its top priority.

Despite advisories urging students to return home, freshman roommates Carson Melton, a nursing major and Bella Barksdale, also a nursing major, stayed on campus over the weekend. The students talk about why they decided to stay. 

“I didn’t even think about going home or anything,” Melton said.

The students prepared for the potential dangers of winter weather, yet they felt that the precautions were not necessary.

 “I honestly think it was overhyped for where we are,” Barksdale said. “My mom was freaking out and asking if I had groceries, warm blankets, water, et cetera.” 

Melton describes how the roommates spent their time indoors.  

“We did watercolor painting and played cards,” Melton said. 

The students did not seem to be concerned, nor affected a great deal by the winter storm. 

“We were prepared with snacks anyway,” Melton said.

As asynchronous learning was implemented on Monday, students were given various assignments and meetings to attend.

Rainer speaks on asynchronous learning for Monday, Jan. 26. She referred to the struggles of participating in an outdoor education class. 

“It was a bit of a challenge…” Rainer said.

The alternative learning style seemed to be a challenge for GCSU students, especially if the class requires hands-on learning. However, online resources proved to be helpful during the uncertain time. 

“We still did our reading and questions like normal,” Rainer said.

Melton also elaborates on her experience with virtual learning. 

“I had one teacher send me a video to watch and come to class today with thoughts about it,” Melton said. 

A variety of learning opportunities were displayed for the day, and some classes had no meetings or assignments.

Students spoke on their opinions of the school’s safety precautions and decisions regarding the storm. 

“I think for how much it was built up everywhere, I think they did the right thing just in case there were any issues on the road and whatnot,” Barksdale said.

Melton also shares her thoughts. She refers to the campus-wide announcement of alternative learning and the recommendation to go home.

“I feel like they were just being safe,” Melton said. “Some decisions were more last-minute than I would’ve liked.” 

Though GCSU managed to escape the dangers of winter storm Fern, the threat of snow is still prevalent. 

“Bring on more snow.” Melton said. 

In the event of another winter storm, students are encouraged to check their school email and GCSU’s official social media pages for updates and safety information.