The pandemic is now more than six months old, and we're all wearing thin in patience with all the precautions we must follow to keep healthy. Although tired, now is not the time for us to be lax. Here's what three UNL students had to offer about staying diligent about social distancing.
Sam Vernon, Sophomore
Since moving on campus this fall, social distance safety has been emphasized from everyone around me. It has been especially important for me to social distance since I work with people who are at high risk to COVID-19. Some things that I have adapted to follow these rules are as simple as eating meals in smaller groups or doing more things outdoors. I have found that walking around campus has been a great release to get some fresh air and stay safe while practicing social distancing. Another fun activity to do is get some friends and play Spikeball. It is an easy game that lets you spread out but also have fun with friends while playing. As great as it is to be back on campus and see your friends again, it's just as important to be mindful of others around you.
Sarah Babcock, Junior
As a very social person, I was really worried about how the lack of interacting with people would impact my sanity. However, what I’ve found throughout quarantine is that the majority of activities I would do with my friends if we were all together can also be done in a socially distant way. My favorite way to stay connected is by sitting outside of a coffee shop and chatting, or inviting friends over to sit on my deck. Although video chatting isn’t quite the same experience as hanging out with friends in person, it’s one of the safest options and something I find myself doing at least once a day as well. I’m very excited for a return to normal, but I'm glad there are ways to stay connected with my peers in these weird times.
Aline Uwashimimana, Junior
Since I am a people person, I was nervous that I may not be able to connect with my friends during the social distancing situation. However, I managed to find my way around this issue. Once my close friends started getting sick, we had to adapt to new ways of hanging out. Since I did not want to stop meeting my friends, I started using video calls more often as a safe way to connect with them. I also like to meet my friends outside where we can sit six feet apart and still be able to talk. There are plenty of places on campus that encourage this and I think that is pretty cool. I used to do a lot of hand shaking and hugging with friends, but now for the safety of us all, we try to do other forms of greeting like waving or creative greetings like doing signs with our face or hands (crazy but safe).
Is social distancing causing you to feel disconnected from your social and personal relationships? UNL's Well-being Coaches are available to help you with tips and strategies to reconnect with others. Your free coaching sessions can be done virtually, phone, or in-person with the new (and popular) "Walk with a Coach" option. Schedule a session now.