The Lion's Den

Forever etched in the shape of history are the repercussions left by COVID-19 and society may not be the same once the dust settles. 2020 serves as a historic turning point: the ongoing rise of bigotry, major socio-economic downfall, and other terrors that have distinguished 2020 as a distinguished point in history. Yet despite the events of the early 2020 year, just how positive will life look like in the summer and for the upcoming school year?

In the near future, I doubt our summer will change drastically. With various states slowly attempting to reopen and summer beginning to approach, the urge to abandon quarantine and stop wearing masks have taken over some reckless people. Without proper execution, the risk of a second wave could turn from mere suspicion into a brim reality. That’s why this summer should be treated with more care than ever; masks should still be worn to reduce the risk of infection. Classic summer hot spots, like beaches, will most likely be busier than ever, especially considering that people already break quarantine to visit them. Popular summer businesses may boost in business but is the epidemic risk worth it?

Education-wise, there’s going to be a few things different in our new norm. For summer school, it seems like virtual learning will still be a thing; the only difference being that now all of the work will be mandatory. However, given the outcry from students, the outside programs hosting the learning will most likely better adapt the work to be manageable. As for the upcoming school year, education will likely follow a similar pattern should the risk of a second wave rises. Until otherwise, life will continue online.

Despite COVID-19, students can look forward to a particular benefit regarding college admissions. For the classes of 2021 and 2022, the SAT and ACT will be optional and will not be required to be turned in. However, some students are sharing a certain fear about this. Crystal He, a Junior, explained this fear: “What if admissions offices are more inclined to accept the students that turn in their scores, as opposed to the students that don’t?” It makes me question if post-quarantine really is positive after all.

Without a doubt, life post-COVID has its ups and downs. While positive in comparison to life in quarantine, life post-quarantine will forever impact the face of history. It forces us to look at our lives in a different light, one in which we have more forethought. But throughout it all, only time will tell how positive life can truly be after COVID.