As the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread, Montclair State University is requiring students to get their COVID-19 booster shot by March 1.

However, as an incentive for students to obtain the vaccine earlier, Montclair State is raffling up to $8,500 for students who upload proof of having received the booster shot by the “early bird deadline” of Monday, Jan. 31. Students who are exempt from getting the booster shot but continue their weekly COVID-19 testing, the university announced last Tuesday, will be placed in the running for a chance to win a $500 gift card.

Melissa Shafer, a sophomore nursing major, feels the booster requirement will be effective in keeping students safe but believes the early bird deadline isn’t going to urge students to act sooner.

“I’m excited to be moved in and I’m super excited to be back on campus,” Shafer said. “I think mandating the booster shot was smart to keep everyone safe, and as much as I love the idea of winning some money for getting the booster, I don’t think it will change anyone’s mind who wasn’t vaccinated to now get the booster. But, I’m hoping for the best this semester. Hopefully, classes stay in person.”

Jason Sequera, a junior theatre studies major, believes the booster mandate is crucial in such unprecedented times, but emphasizes that it’s more of a bribe than anything else.
Lynise Olivacce |…