The re-opening of college campuses in pursuit of the “campus experience” involves multiplying physical interactions and extending and amplifying so- cial contact chains amongst college populations. In the midst of a global pandemic this creates conditions for an increase in viral transmission. In circumstances of a worsening epidemiological profile, and where the sec- tion of the population to be mobilised in this endeavour comprises those most likely to contract infection with Covid-19 and to expose others to in- fection, colleges committing to recreating the “campus experience” pose a very particular challenge to public health. Measures to counter this threat have evolved piecemeal over recent months and continue to be elaborated in local settings in a largely ad hoc manner, leaving many hostages to for- tune. Accordingly, one may ask: Does the pursuit of “the campus experi- ence” at third level institutions in Ireland constitute a significant and under- recognised public health risk? Evidence on recent Covid-19 infection pat- terns and pathways suggests it probably does.