The New Villanova: Why We Should Be Grateful
By Lauren Beizer
The “new normal” here on Villanova’s campus is truly anything but “normal.” Socializing with friends has become restricted, the food options have been limited, and the best study spaces have been redesigned. Although this “new normal” may seem daunting and frustrating to live with, it is undoubtedly something to be grateful for.
Many colleges and universities all across the country are not having any sort of in-person contact or any on-campus presence this fall for their students. Villanova has provided a safe way to come back to campus and learn in-person as much as possible. We as students are able to come back to our favorite college campus that hosts some of our closest friends and peers.
Although we have to distance ourselves and wear masks, we are still able to physically see our friends and classmates. We can still communicate in-person and not solely over a tiny screen. We are able to grab food, chat, and even exercise with our fellow Wildcats without risking our safety.
When grabbing a bite to eat on campus with friends, the new options can appear somewhat daunting. There is limited hot food available and most meals are to-go. Most Villanova students are extremely busy, so these increased to-go options can also be seen as a blessing.
Ranging from roasted chicken, rice, and beans, to the infamous buffalo bleu salad, there are options for every diet. The best aspect to this new dining experience is the ability to take your meal to-go or to sit and eat with friends in a distant space. Prior to COVID-19, the primary option was solely in-hall dining. Now students can really choose what food option works best for them and their schedules. (Not to mention the lines in the dining halls and student center have gotten extremely shorter and move quicker!)
The best part about the new regulations on campus is the increase in outdoor study spaces available and the outdoor classes. Last year, I found it nearly impossible to find somewhere to do my homework outside when the weather was nice. Nearly every table would be filled or taken. That’s no longer an issue for me. Villanova has provided more tables and chairs wherever they could on campus in order to provide more space for students to do work in a distanced setting. For that, I am grateful.
One of the great aspects of the hybrid or outdoor classes is the ability to learn outside. Sitting in Tolentine or a stuffy classroom on a beautiful day is borderline painful. But because Villanova has moved various classrooms outside, students are able to learn and study outdoors on nice days.
Although adjusting to this “new normal,” takes time, there is a lot to be grateful for. We can see our friends, classmates, and teachers. We can live on campus. We can still have in-person learning experiences while remaining safe. We can still live a college student life similar to that one we once had before. And for that, I am very appreciative and grateful.
