Written by Kaelyn Spickler
Here’s the deal: there’s a lot going on this semester, but that isn’t news to anyone.
First, I want to start with a note to the freshmen by asking you guys to think back to a few months ago when the remaining months of your high school senior year were ripped away from you. You had spent the last four years finding your place at school, and whether you looked forward to going or not, memorable moments including prom, sport seasons, and graduation, were taken away from you. Put yourself back in those moments and remember how you felt. Please keep in mind that your actions over the next few weeks, in particular, dictate if the Class of 2021 will have those same moments ripped away from them. Do you really want to be part of the cause of that, just to have some fun in a crowded basement? Save that kind of fun for when it’s legal; trust me, it’s so much more fun!
Now for the upperclassmen, it’s our job to set an example of what being a Maroon entails. This includes practicing social distancing, wearing our masks, and not hosting large gatherings (as stated in the updated Student Conduct Code). If we can’t do our part now to stay safe while just some of our friends are on campus with us, then we won’t be able to have fun with all of our friends in a few weeks. Think about your favorite professor who has spent more hours than ever planning for this semester, all at a lower salary than last year. They have been selfless to make sure we have a smooth semester, so don’t be selfish and spend your weekend nights in a crowded basement. Their life or their job may depend on us wearing a mask. Think about the staff who have gone through every possible scenario to make sure our college is set up and run in the safest way. Think about your friends who are wanting to get here just as bad as you were. Don’t ruin it for them. Think about the freshmen class who had so much taken away from them and now they are trying to find their place in their new community. Don’t make this even harder for them by not doing your part in helping us all stay safe and on campus.
On another note, let’s make sure we are kind, patient, and understanding to our roommates, our friends, our classmates, our professors, the Roanoke College staff, and even to the person who gets on our last nerve. Everyone is fighting a battle whether they outwardly show it or not. Let’s treat everyone fairly and with respect because at the end of the day, we are all Maroons.
We are one big family whether we look the same, believe the same, or love the same, and we are all in this together. Let’s go the extra mile to support and protect one another. This starts with listening (I mean really listening) to each other, washing our hands, wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and being there for one another.
