COVID-19 and Campus Life
TOPEKA, Kan. – Washburn students and officials reflect on changes to campus life, the difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and their hopes for the future.
Universities across the country were forced to think critically about campus activities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Washburn was no exception.
“The pandemic has caused me to rethink the way I plan and program events for students, faculty, and staff,”
said Isiah Collier, Washburn’s Director of Student Involvement and Development. “It has pushed me to think outside of the box and heavily consider safety when planning events.”
Washburn officials noted an increase in anxiety, financial, and social problems among Washburn students as a result of the global pandemic. Many students faced difficulty adjusting to a virtual college experience, and others had no choice but to work more hours to compensate for lost wages.
“Research shows that more hours worked has a negative effect on academic performance," said Dr. Eric Grospitch, Vice President for Student Life at Washburn. “I worry about helping students get across the commencement stage.”
The pandemic also robbed many first-year students of a traditional college experience, and the imposed safety precautions created a restrictive campus environment that generated uncertainty among some students living in the residence halls.
“I feel like there are a lot of precautions, but I understand why they are there,” said Freshman Josh Robinson, who lives in the LLC.
The effects of the pandemic persist as Washburn students return to campus masked and still in the midst of a global pandemic.
“We are still all waiting for ‘what’s next’,” said Dr. Grospitch.
However, the return to in-person classes and the possibility of more events on campus have restored some normality for Washburn students, and administrators are hopeful of the future.
“It feels like we are coming out of the tunnel, and I have personally been more energized and excited for the future,” said Dr. Grospitch.
