Cierra Lemott 
Since the pandemic started, our sense of “normal” has shifted. Reasonably so, considering our entire way of doing everything got completely flipped upside down. Things we used to do without a second thought are now things that we raise an eyebrow at. Things we once raised an eyebrow to are now things that we don’t even bat an eye at.
Fear of coughing in public
If looks could kill, I would be dead a thousand times over from coughing in public. It’s so awkward and uncomfortable to cough or even clear your throat in public because people automatically assume you have COVID.
Not knowing what someone’s entire face looks like
It’s been two years of wearing face masks and I’m still not over not being able to see people’s full faces. It’s also odd to finally see what someone looks like without their mask after envisioning them looking a certain way.
Remote learning
No one could’ve told me that I would’ve spent the end of senior year and the beginning of college behind a computer screen. The two weeks we were supposed to be out of school turned into two years. I may or may not still be a little bitter about not having a real graduation or prom. Even in college some of the classes were still remote.
Getting a Q-tip pushed up your nose
This has to be one of the worst parts of COVID. Being a college student, I get tested pretty frequently to make sure I haven’t gotten the virus and spread it. It’s definitely something I dread and don’t look forward to.
Showing a vaccination card to get into venues/events
I never thought I would have to prove to someone that I’m vaccinated just to sit in an indoor establishment. Trust me, I understand the logic and reasoning behind it, but it’s still strange getting used to.
Moral of the story, COVID-19 has shown us that everything is subject to change. Regardless of these changes, we have to adapt and keep moving forward because time keeps going.
By Cierra Lemott, Junior, Columbia College Chicago
Instagram: @cece.kodak / @kodakscamera
