With the University of Maryland’s campus taking the past year to adjust to COVID policies, it has been a difficult year for students during the pandemic. Almost all classes have been moved online since last March. The university has severely limited spectators at all sporting events, and in-person campus events have been almost nonexistent. Needless to say, online school has taken a significant toll on the physical and mental well-being of students.
Freshmen who are living away from home for the first time have had to adapt to numerous COVID rules and restrictions, turning college life on its head. This has severely hindered opportunities to socialize, make new friends and have the typical college experience.
Her Campus Maryland checked in with college students at the University of Maryland to get a sense of what college activities they missed the most during the pandemic and what they are looking forward to in the upcoming fall semester. Check out their responses.
“I missed being able to meet in places on campus — like going to the library to study or to work on projects in the journalism school. I’m really excited for the possibility of having all classes in person again.” – Kassidy McDonald, junior journalism major
“Some of the things I miss the most here at UMD during this pandemic is walking on campus to class. I see so many familiar faces throughout my walks, and there are so many spots on campus I loved to hangout. Post-COVID, I’m really looking forward to the group events we have at UMD like football games and my sorority events. I’m also excited to be able to travel again.” – Julia Strauch, sophomore physiology and neurobiology major
“I missed attending sports games. Basketball is my favorite. [Post-COVID], I hope to get more involved with my sorority, whether it’s attending philanthropy events or spending time with them. I’m a pretty active member, but I feel like when events are in full swing, it’ll be more rewarding.” – Danielle Maron, sophomore communication major
“I most missed going to classes and meeting new people. While being online, I’ve felt a lot more isolated than I would have pre-pandemic. The first thing I’ll do in my first post-COVID semester would probably be going to an event with my sorority. I can’t wait to see all my sisters in the same place safely.” – Sarah Taylor, freshman marketing and supply chain management major