Campus activities and life have been altered by the COVID-19 pandemic. With many of the courses returning to in-person instruction, students are wondering how their college experiences will be effected. // Photo courtesy of Hofstra University.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected multiple aspects of Hofstra students’ lives, and although people have adapted to a new normal, pre-pandemic life is commonly missed.

Students have abided by tough restrictions declared by the University for the health and safety of the community. Students have also altered their educational paths and socialization patterns to reduce exposure and keep the University afloat, but many are wondering when these protective measures will be lifted as the COVID-19 vaccine becomes more accessible.

Students, especially eager first years, have received the short end of the stick throughout the course of the pandemic, costing them friends and opportunities alike. Student connections with their peers, professors and extracurricular activities have had to change. Some students feel as if their social lives are slipping away and the window of opportunity to assimilate into college life is quickly closing.

“As a freshman here at Hofstra I feel that … the COVID-19 guest policy in the dorms is restricting all of our abilities to meet new people and make new relationships,” said Ryan Levenberg, a freshman film studies major. “I really hope that adjustments can be made for next semester so I can thoroughly enjoy my college experience.”

Unlike students who live on campus, remote students feel even more shut out from the community. “I really think I missed out on the college experience,” said Christian Gardecki, a freshman journalism major. “I just stayed in my dorm when I was on campus for the first semester and now I’m staying home.”

Students’ perspectives on what Hofstra will look like next year differs. While many are unsure, they remain optimistic that college life will turn the corner and return to normal. Tony Beres, a senior TV production major, is concluding his undergraduate degree in hopes to return to Hofstra for graduate school. “It was very sad to spend my senior year under COVID-19 restrictions as I was excited to graduate in a normal situation,” Beres said. “I’m considering coming back next year and I’m excited to be able to attend in-person classes. I just hope some things will change, such as visiting dorms and eventually no masks.”

Martine Hackett, associate professor of health professions, believes that it is important to continue focusing on community health even if restrictions begin to ease. “We can’t focus on the future if we don’t take the precautionary measures now, as the University is beginning to show hope with their plan to shift to mostly in person classes,” Hackett said. “I could see guest restrictions being lifted if students were vaccinated, but any requirements for that are still undecided.”

The course of Hofstra’s next academic year is contingent on CDC and New York State guidelines, but the administration remains hopeful. “We are were very keen to return to in-person classes and provide a committed holistic experience,” said Margaret Abraham, senior vice provost for Academic Affairs. “College is a time where the quest of knowledge and possibility of building relationships is important and we want our students to thrive to the best of their ability. We will do our best to achieve our goal of creating the most welcoming experience possible.”

With the rising availability of COVID-19 vaccines and the University’s diligence to return to normal life, things seem to be moving in a positive direction. The administration believes the Hofstra community can get there by working together for the greater good of all. As of now, the University can only commit to in-person classes and the possibility of lifted guest restrictions. Many things are still yet to be determined, but the next academic year is looking bright.