COVID-19
as a Graduating College Senior
Former Extol photographer – and college student – Evan Rivard shares his thoughts on this
When I experienced my
first Indiana University
commencement
ceremony, I was
searching for my sister
in a sea of caps and gowns
throughout Memorial
Stadium. Since my
own time at Indiana
University, I have envisioned myself in her shoes
preparing to take steps toward a new beginning.
The importance of this ceremony is recognized by
many as it honors the efforts and achievements
of college graduates and opens the door to their
future lives. In the context of the current state of
the world, however, commencement seems to
be the least of our concerns. As I write this, the
COVID-19 pandemic has affected many, both at
home and across the globe.
More than 140,000+ Americans have died after
contracting the virus, in addition to leaving tens of
millions unemployed. Concurrently, our country
is experiencing a call-to-action for racial justice.
Protests have taken the forefront of our attention.
These current crises are difficult to process, as the
combination of a global pandemic and nationwide
protests are unprecedented in recent history.
Remaining proactive in the midst of these current
events has proven to be a challenge, as so many
aspects of what we consider “normal” have been
suspended indefinitely.
On the other hand, many have shown great
resolve and adaptability in their efforts to
maintain certain aspects of our lives.
Indiana University has done a great job in
transitioning to online classes to accommodate
students academically. This was implemented in
the spring semester and extended into the summer
term. After finishing my spring semester, I am in the
process of completing my final two courses. One
of these includes advanced career development,
serving as a substitute for an internship due
to limitations in work and interactions from
potential COVID-19 exposure. In this course, I
will obtain essential UITS certifications in web
design, web creation, Access, and Excel through
IU. Additionally, the class emphasizes preparation
and acclimation for a novel time to enter the job
market.
My other online class, employee recruitment
and selection in the public sector, is a valuable
course to be taking with regard to these current
times. I have made the decision to use my free
time to work as a Door Dash delivery driver. Not
only am I able to meet the current demand for
restaurant delivery due to social distancing, but it
also gives me the ability to work and make money
in a flexible way.
I believe that our country, in addition to the
world, faces a critical moment that will be written
into history books for many years to come. The
response to these pertinent events, whether they
are perceived as positive or negative, should
be of importance to everyone. This extends to
responsibilities like voting, activism, and action
that reflect the significance of both the voice of
an individual and combined effectiveness. What
is today known as “The Greatest Generation”
began with the Great Depression, then, followed
by Roosevelt’s massive reforms in the New Deal,
and World War II. Confronting and surpassing
challenges is not something new for this country as
it writes our history and establishes the resilience
we see today. The struggles we are faced with
today in 2020, especially as graduates, should
not be understated. Generation Z is comprised
of the children who experienced 9/11, witnessed
endless wars, countless school shootings, police
brutality, and are now entering the labor force
during a global health crisis. I believe that this is a
vital point in time as we, the leaders of tomorrow,
show our strength and resilience in response
to these challenging circumstances, ultimately
shaping the future.
Photos and Text by Evan Rivard
EXTOL : SUMMER 2020
17