A College Student's Worst Enemy: COVID-19 | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

A College Student's Worst Enemy: COVID-19

What COVID took away from me

65
A College Student's Worst Enemy: COVID-19
Google Images/Missouri State Website.

Before spring break, I didn't think much of all the cancellations around me. Until it came to me. My classes all got moved online, all my last events were canceled, and my college graduation. Here is how COVID changed my life.


1. I lost all my "lasts."

My organizations had their last few events planned before break. Now, they're gone. Nothing is more disappointing than not getting to soak in all those last moments before graduation (which is now being postponed). My ministry had a spring break mission trip, which was called off two days beforehand. Instead of spending my break serving a college in Texas and Mexico, I stayed in.

2. I lost a lot of leisure activities.

I had plans to see some friends upon my return from break, but had to postpone with the quick spread of the virus. My ability to head to the student union to get Starbucks before class or meet up with friends disappeared. Now, I can't go and pet random dogs I see due to physical distancing.

3. I felt lonely.

I found out I was waitlisted before the spread, which already dampened my mood. I stayed in too much and spent too much time on my phone over break, which caused my anxiety to rise, and caused me to break down. Several friends moved out of their dorms, and I couldn't get together with people in person. With the order, it's limiting in-person contact even further. My "Have a good break" exchanges with people became "Goodbyes" with COVID and all the sudden move-outs.

4. I lost my go-to study spots.

The campus library closed, which was where I studied often. I also loved going to coffee shops. The shops closed, except for to-go orders. My ability to bounce from spot to spot vanished in only a matter of days. My motivation flew south (which already happened plenty enough with the case of senioritis I had before).

5. I was robbed of the chance to tour graduate schools.

My plans after break were to figure out dates to visit some grad school programs. Instead, they closed. It's hard to experience the vibes of the towns without physically being there. Now, virtual tours and calls are how I'll fill that void.

6. I lost services.

I was receiving speech therapy twice a week on campus. Over break, I got a call that sessions were canceled the rest of the semester. Nothing is more haunting knowing that our "Have a good spring break" exchanges were going to be "Goodbyes" instead. I no longer get to see my clinician who encouraged me each session. Most of the time, I took exams at a clinic downtown for my accommodations for extended time and distraction-reduced setting. The clinic is no longer open, which means I have to resort to Lockdown Browser at home. I physically can't go into the Counseling center anymore, either. COVID-19 is an inconvenience for college students already, but can be even more so for students with disabilities or mental health issues.

7. I lost the classroom.

I learned best being in class. I didn't go to class on the last day before break due to how anxious and depressed I felt. A small part of me sometimes wished I had sucked it up and went.

8. I lost my campus jobs.

The daycare I work at closed. I miss the energy the students brought. I was a lab assistant for a student needing accommodations in class. Now, classes are online and I don't get to see them.

9. I lost campus life.

I could no longer walk all over campus like I was used to for class, studying, work, etc. I was always on the go. My structure disappeared. I lost the livelihood of how busy campus was.

Check on the students in your life, especially high school and college seniors.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

2300
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

1221
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

953
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

882
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments