In a time where uncertainty and anxiety are at the forefront of everyone’s minds, universities across the country developed plans and implemented policies that either limit or completely shut down their on-campus activities. These schools include the prestigious Princeton University, which switched to fully online courses starting in the fall. Olivet Nazarene University, however, made the opposing call.
Beginning in the fall semester of 2020, Olivet worked to secure an in-person school year for its students, enabling them to continue participating in athletic programs, as well as the spiritual and social characteristics of campus life. While these aforementioned aspects of the college experience were placed under strict rules and regulations, what became of the academic side and how did it affect its students?
The concern for college students’ mental health is not a recent focus, with various studies having been conducted over the previous years. In particular, one study titled College Students: Mental Health Problems and Treatment Considerations discussed the possible reasons as to their mental decline. One reason of note is the added pressure from meeting academic requirements, on top of work and family demands outside of school.
This is further reiterated by Jace Pettet, a senior at Olivet majoring in Finance.
“It’s definitely been difficult to manage both my schoolwork and my relationships back home.” Pettet said.
However, Pettet has found professors at Olivet to be more understanding since the beginning of the pandemic.
“There have been times where my professor will allow an extension where they typically wouldn’t, and I think that speaks to the solidarity between students and professors this year.”
And an understanding there is, as Dr. Jay Martinson, the Dean of Online Learning, spoke on the arduous challenges Olivet leaders encountered in the beginning of the pandemic and onward.
“Basic things were brand new to some professors… some of them didn’t even use Canvas.” Martinson said. While this did lead to several bumps along the way, the understanding was ever-present, Martinson said and, “students have been exceptionally graceful.”
Looking at the modern classroom setting displays both the instructors’ willingness and the students’ resolve to do whatever it takes to meet in person. The ability to do so has been exceptional for Bryce Poole, an Olivet political science major in his senior year.
“Online classes have their advantages, but I’m glad we can meet in-person in order to preserve the personal connections and experiences only found in the classroom,” Poole said.
Even though the restrictions and potential cancellations have been a looming factor of the 2020-2021 collegiate year, faculty members such as Dr. Lynda Allen, a professor in the McGraw School of Business, have seen positivity in their classroom settings.
“I think just the chance to be around fellow classmates has been highly beneficial for our students, despite the barriers that masks and social distancing create,” Allen said.
This past year has challenged everyone in academics, from students who are just beginning their college year to faculty members with decades of experience. However, what connects them is the antagonist that is COVID-19.
