A year like no other
Making the Most of a Pandemic
N
o one knew what the coming weeks would hold. Colleges and universities across the country were opening their doors for the first time since March, crossing their fingers that they could remain open to Thanksgiving and then complete the semester
online. COVID guidelines were sent out well in advance to students, parents, faculty, and staff. Get use to your mask, keep your distance, wash your hands, restrict your travel... you know the drill. For the majority of the YC student body, coming back to campus was about the most anticipated homecoming they could remember. They hadn't left for spring break thinking, "This is it." Cancellation of campus living as they knew it came about so suddenly, they didn't even have the opportunity to pack. No Songfest, no spring sports, no commencement, no goodbyes. Now it's August; 171 days have passed since the campus teemed with life and laughter. A team of wild horses couldn't keep returning students from seeing their friends again, but a pandemic could. What if questions still plagued the horizon. What if an incoming student has the virus? What if stricter travel restrictions are put in place? What if there is an outbreak on campus?
(above) Temperature checks have become common place now that the awkward stage has past.
16 | Heritage | FALL 2020
(left) President Sam Smith and his son Boden get their free shaved ice during the welcome back block party.
