With over a million confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the United States (U.S.), schools across America are closed for the rest of the school year. Consequently, students are required to attend online classes. Likewise, many rites of passages, such as senior prom and graduation, are being canceled or turning online. Senior year, notable for being the most exciting time, has become a nightmare for the class of 2020.

For many seniors, this year might be the last time they spend time with friends before going off to college. Many schools are trying hard to restore or continue to offer senior activities online.

In fact, for some schools, graduation and prom became virtual events. While students are furious about this option, this is the only way people can be safe and still “enjoy” their senior year during the pandemic. While you cannot physically dance with your friends, go to a nice venue, and have good food, many students are trying to stay positive amid the limited situation.

For instance, some seniors are utilizing creative measures to celebrate their milestones by creating a “Adopt a high school senior” Facebook page. Through this page, high school seniors can post simple descriptions of themselves and people can support a student of their choice by sending gift cards, positive messages, and any other token of appreciation. This group has helped to provide encouragement to many graduating seniors, and more students are creating unique measures to support each other during the pandemic.

Finally, students are learning to be more resilient to this situation, because at the end of the day, this is the safest way to celebrate students’ milestones.

As students adapt to this situation, we all need to stay positive to make the most out of quarantine to beat COVID-19 and restore our normal life.

<Willie Ro Troy HS 10th Grade>