TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Classes resume at Florida State University on Monday. It’s the first time students will be back in the classroom since the deadly mass shooting on campus last week.

Thursday, police said Phoenix Ikner opened fire in the school’s student union, where two people died and six others were injured in the shooting.

Some students said they can’t imagine returning to class just days after the attack.

“I think it’s almost like a slap in the face,” a student said.

“I don’t want to go back,” another student said.

Ian Townsend from Lakeland said he had two classes with the suspected shooter while attending Tallahassee State College.

“I instantly just stood up out of complete shock, I put my hands on my head and was like, there’s no possible way that’s right,” Townsend said. “I just think back to, I mean, if I would’ve said anything that maybe would’ve triggered him, he could’ve done something to our class earlier on. It’s just crazy to think about.”

He and other students now face the return to class.

FSU’s President Richard McCollough said the university is waiving all mandatory attendance policies this week, grades won’t be affected, and remote options will be available for most coursework.

The announcement comes the week before the end-of-semester exams. Leaders with FSU have not released a statement about whether they’ll make adjustments for finals.

Many members of the university can’t imagine being in a classroom on campus again this school year.

“I don’t know how long it’s going to take, but I don’t think I’m prepared to go back to class. How can I go to class after that? Next Monday, I have to go back to the same class,” a student said.

FSU is offering support services for students, faculty, and staff.

• Students who need mental health support should reach out to our Counseling & Psychological Services team at (850) 644-TALK (8255). 
• The Victim Advocate Program provides free, confidential, and compassionate assistance to FSU students. Call 24/7 (850) 644-7161, text (850) 756-4320, or email Victims-Advocate@fsu.edu. 
• Employees who need assistance should contact EAP at (850) 644-2288 for free, professional counseling services.