“Senior Year, Covid Style”

The Coronavirus pandemic has put a huge burden on all of us. When the virus first hit the United States, the future was very uncertain. That scared many people because no one knew what was going to happen overnight or the next day. Thankfully, we have come a long way since March 2020. Restaurants and stores reopened, toilet paper is finally back in stock, and most importantly, students and teachers are back in the classroom.

Although being back in school is what everyone hoped, students are having a hard time adjusting to the new normal, especially the senior class. Senior year is supposed to be filled with amazing memories: one last Homecoming, sending in that final college application, shopping for that perfect prom dress, and a shot at the coveted Rock Rivalry cup. Due to Covid-19 this year, all of these memories have been put on hold. What was supposed to be the best year has become the most stressful and sad year. 

Several seniors from the ERHS class of 2021 were interviewed and gave their opinion on these two questions:

How are you feeling about senior year?

“I’m feeling lucky to be able to be going to school every two days and I no longer take it for granted. I wish I could see some of my friends from the Rock team in school because it does feel lonely since classes are much smaller. But overall I’ve had a good senior year so far. I hope things get better rather than worse and we can all be back in the building together so I can be with everyone for my last year at ERHS.” – Sofia Statuto

“So far I feel like it’s going pretty well. When it comes to academics, every class I have is fairly easy and enjoyable. I am hoping we’ll still have some revised versions of my favorite extracurriculars like the musical and rock riv, only time will tell!!” – Sofia Bertolotti

“I feel sad that we are missing out on events this year (especially since it’s our last year), but I also kind of like the hybrid system” – Daniella Pedi

“I’ve been feeling pretty frustrated and bummed out because of all the cancellations, uncertainties, and difficulties that come with adjusting to a hybrid virtual school year. This year has thrown a lot at me so far and its been quite a difficult thing to acclimate to.” – Nick Pannullo

“It’s alrightttt” – Daniel Ricci

What has the college application process been like for you?

“Terrible. Balancing hybrid with college applications is no joke. We missed so many opportunities with the guidance counselors last spring and over the summer so it is hard to deal with.” – Grace McNally

“The College Application process has definitely been a bit of a struggle. Not being able to visit a lot of schools and most things being virtual has made the process even more difficult, but with the help of Ms. Robbins I have been able to get everything done efficiently.” – Emily Hernandez

“It’s been stressful but I feel like now that I’m somewhat getting towards the end of it, it’s really relieving, and I’m super excited to go away next year. I’m ready to start the next part of my life and start learning things that spark my interest.” – Emma Pollackov

For all of the seniors, this is not the year they worked so very hard for. It is very upsetting for all of us. No one wants the memories of what should have been the best year of their high school year to be full of social distancing and remote learning and masks. The senior class could not be more thankful for the opportunity to be back but wishes things could be different and better.