Appalachian State University student looking for new home after Helene

BOONE, N.C. (WGHP) — Class is back in session at Appalachian State University after parts of the campus were flooded.

Unfortunately, some students aren't able to return to class.

Flooded roads are what folks in Boone had to deal with after Helene caused significant damage in the area.

ASU senior Temaya Johnson says her heavily wooded neighborhood located right outside of downtown Boone dealt with down trees. One fell on her home.

"You would just never expect something like this to happen in Boone. We're built for snow not for hurricanes," Temaya said.

Until her house is repaired, her new home for the time being is the Red Roof Inn in Wilkesboro, but she can't commute back and forth to ASU for classes.

"I can't be in my house. I'm far from my friends and everything," Temaya said.

ASU classes resumed on Wednesday.

While things are back to normal for some students, the university has set up a disaster hub for students like Temaya inside the Plemmons Student Union.

Students and employees can connect with FEMA and get insurance guidance and academic advising in the student union.

A spokesperson for the university says students are working individually with faculty members if they have to switch to online learning.

Meanwhile, Temaya doubts she'll be able to do in-person or online classes due to her current circumstances.

"I currently don't plan on going back to class this semester," Temaya said.

We asked an ASU spokesperson how many students were not able to attend in-person classes after Helene, and we have not received an answer yet.

A GoFundMe has been set up for Temaya.