Dear Editor,
We have survived two full semesters that both were tremendously impacted by COVID-19.
When COVID-19 first hit home in March of 2020, we were forced to leave campus–what many of our students call a second home–and return to our home state or home base. Around the time we were sent home, we were midway through a semester and we were faced with the unknown. We were unsure what online classes would be like at the time, but now they are something we are all a little too accustomed to. This time period was filled with high anxiety, fear, and what-ifs, but we made it to the summer with the support of our classmates, peers, professors, and our NVU family.
Throughout summer, we were all curious about what college would even look like in the fall of 2020. The fall semester was out of the ordinary, but at the same time, the closest to “normal” we could get. Our new routines look different for each student but mainly include wearing masks when around others, being socially distanced within the classroom or at campus events, and having classes held over Zoom. Although 2020 was a difficult year, we made it through, and we are now fully prepared for the future.
As we begin another out of the ordinary semester, it is important to remember all we have worked through to get here. With the support of others within our NVU family and surrounding community, we will be able to work through any challenges we face this semester. I have high hopes that all NVU students, faculty, and staff are committed to the safety and well being of our entire campus and community.
NVU–we can make this yet another great semester. I would like to challenge everyone to make a new connection this semester, whether that be with a peer, a professor, a staff member, an RA, or a person in our community.
Welcome and welcome back, Hornets. I am so excited to see what we all accomplish this semester.
Gill Macdonald
2020-2021 SGA President
Feature Photo by Alexandra Huff || The view from the top of the “awkward stairs” as students returned to classes.