Potential Impact Of Verizon Strike On Students

August 18, 2000
University Park, Pa. — As a result of the current labor strike by Verizon employees, concerns have been raised about whether the work stoppage could affect the telecommunications needs of new and returning Penn State students. Penn State does not anticipate experiencing any on-campus problems with phone or Internet services; off-campus students are advised to check with their telephone service carrier for any potential service problems or delays. Any such problems should be addressed directly to the telephone company, and not through the University.

The following questions and answers should help address some concerns; any specific questions regarding telephone service should be directed to your telephone service provider.

Q: Will the strike cause a problem for students to get or use telephones in the residence halls?

A: No, there should be no problems at all with on-campus telephone or Internet service.

Q: Will off-campus students be without telephones or unable to have service installed when they move in?

A: Maybe. At a minimum, students should expect longer than normal installation intervals. In cases where no outside work has to be completed, installations should occur relatively smoothly although they may take longer then normal. In those cases where outside work (wiring to the apartment, wiring within the apartment or other physical work) is required, long delays should be expected. Students are advised to check with their telephone service provider, as the University does not regulate telephone service in off-campus housing units.

Q: What will happen to the potentially thousands of off-campus students who connect to classes and need Internet access for research who need phone lines for their computer modems? Will the University still require them to do their work online, even if they can't get online?

A: The University operates a number of computer labs on campus that could be used by students for Internet access or online course work. Some students may use AT&T At Home service for Internet access, which is not affected by the Verizon work action. Also, some students may live in apartment buildings which offer private (non-Verizon) phone service.