By Danni Harris
To emphasize the safety of faculty and students, only ten percent of students were allowed on campus this semester.
With a shortened semester, students are only required to attend class four days a week, as opposed to the standard five. Wednesdays are reserved for required COVID testing, which is offered by student health services. Classrooms and educational buildings are sanitized on Wednesdays, as well.
Many students found other ways to use their day off. After students protested better treatment last year, the University decided to lighten the work week. Many students complained that they were being overworked and ignored during previous semesters. Many felt as is instructors were being inconsiderate towards the plights of the student body.
For the most part, students are making the best of their day off. “I am so happy the school decided to give us a day off from classes. Although I am not on campus this semester, virtual school is very overwhelming. We [the students] definitely deserve the break”, senior Janita Thomas said.
Unfortunately, while majority of the school is relaxing on Wednesdays, some students do have class. Although the University did not approve classes on Wednesdays, there are some professors who requested class on that day. “I wish I didn’t have class on Wednesdays. I wanted to use my time off for a mental health day. Not having school in the middle of the week allows me time to relax and catch up on assignments,” junior Ariyana Griffin said.
As midterms are coming to a finish, students are nearing the midpoint of a third virtual semester. Even though the school has not issued an official statement regarding the upcoming Fall semester, many believe that school will resume on campus and open up to more students. If this is the case, more students are expected to arrive on campus and different changes will be implemented.