LEARNING
Oxford students gather while socially distanced on the quad. (Photo courtesy of Oxford College, David Cannon Photography)
‘Not another Oxford out there’ By TAYLOR BECK tbeck@covnews.com
For years, Oxford College of Emory University has taken pride in being a community-centric institution and providing an unmatched personalized experience for students. But since the global COVID-19 pandemic took root, the college’s administration has been forced to — like everyone else — adapt. As of April 7, half of the nearly 1,000 students enrolled at Oxford College are learning via in-person instruction. The other half, which consists of students from across the globe, are learning virtually from home. Prior to the fall 2020 semester, students were receiving all virtual instruction, which Community Relations Director Laura Gafnea said was difficult for both students and faculty. Practically no one from outside the college was allowed onto campus for visits or any other activities. “As it probably is for every working person, I think Zoom fatigue is real,” she said. “So, you know, 8 VISIONS
how do you help them get over that and figure out a way to connect with them and figure out a way to connect with them in this new format?” Gafnea said the college’s campus life team has done a great job of making every student know and feel like they’re part of the community through various programs. Hygge, pronounced “hoo-gah,” is the college’s latest program that has focused on developing a sense of “comfort, community and connectedness” and promote self care and wellness, Gafnea said. As result of the program, the college’s picturesque quad has been decorated with what Gafnea described as “draped, twinkly lights, comfy chairs and fire pits” for students to take advantage of, all while maintaining the prescribed amount of social distancing. For off-campus students, Hygge shipped out “care packages” filled with blankets, journals and a grow-your-own-plant kit. “The Hygge program concept, I think, is really here to stay,” Gafnea said. “It’s about supporting THE COVINGTON NEWS
