Life before COVID

Have you all found yourself reminiscing on the moments before COVID-19? When life was much simpler and a bit more carefree? I think we’ve all experienced those “OH CRAP, MY MASK!” moments and the worst thing about it is we’re not even super cool superheroes who are concealing our identities just regular degular people protecting ourselves and others from a virus. Do y’all ever miss being able to go to a concert or even a simple basketball game without  a mask or capacity restrictions? 

One event before COVID that I thoroughly enjoyed were sporting events. JSU is a school that focuses heavily on the football program and to not be able to attend games every other Sunday in Burgess-Snow with my friends has really sucked. Football games are truly one of the most exciting events in my college career. From finding out what cute outfit to wear, to deciding what time to meet up with friends, and even seeing where everyone was deciding to tailgate. 

The energy in Burgess-Snow is like no other. It was loud, exciting, and thrilling. Watching the ROTC do push-ups after every touchdown, hearing the gamecock after every first down and everyone screaming to the top of their lungs “FEAR THE BEAK!”. 

With Jacksonville being one of those “small-town, at home” schools, it was truly amazing to see fans of all ages. From babies in onesies to the great great grandparents of players. The range of people that love the school is plentiful. There are supporters from near and far and that is truly what makes Jacksonville such an amazing place. 

Another event that was fun before COVID was the “Silent Party” hosted by the SGA. This was a very unique and fun event. Truly, at Jacksonville, there are not a ton of things that can be done because it is such a small university and funds are not as plentiful as Alabama and Auburn.

The “Silent Party” consisted of headphones that every participant received. The noise-cancelling headphones had 3 different “stations” that played different genres of music so that everyone could enjoy. I really enjoyed seeing students from all different races, cultures, and backgrounds coming together and mingling even if we all were off-beat and dancing to different songs.

The SGA did an amazing job of advertising this event, it was nearly impossible to scroll on Instagram or Facebook without seeing posts about the Silent Party. The event itself was very organized and structured. Along with the headphones that were provided, there was also a photo booth with various props that you and your friends could take pictures with. Perhaps the coolest thing however, was the ability to send those pictures that you and friends took right after they were taken. You could enter your phone number or email address and the pictures would instantly be sent to you.

Overall, the one thing I am 100% sure about is that I am absolutely over COVID. I miss events, I miss hanging out with my friends, and I definitely miss my acne free face before masks. I truly do feel bad for the first generation college students that were not able to experience the TRUE freshman year for a college student. They did not get to experience the parties, tailgating, football games, and cool events. 

COVID, it’s time to leave now and everyone, WEAR YOUR MASKS!