As the COVID-19 pandemic reaches its fourth anniversary, its impact continues to be felt worldwide. The Michigan Daily reports that despite 59% of Americans believing the pandemic is over, nearly the same percentage think life has not returned to normal [09204e83]. College students, in particular, have been greatly affected by the pandemic, with their educational journey being far from normal. The pandemic has brought about significant changes to the college experience, including increased reliance on technology, decreased student attendance and engagement, and the emergence of mental health issues [09204e83].
The article argues that to move on from the pandemic, there needs to be a collective effort to remember and grieve the losses experienced, as well as a commitment to discussing its aftermath and advocating for knowledge and understanding of academic progress [09204e83]. College students should recognize that their educational journey has been altered by the pandemic and that it is important to address the challenges they face.
Despite the ongoing challenges, there have been positive outcomes that have emerged amidst the pandemic. The American system of liberties was tested and held firm when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against President Biden's mandate for COVID-19 vaccines [985c9d2b]. This ruling reaffirmed the importance of individual freedoms and limited government intervention. Additionally, telehealth reforms advanced, allowing for greater access to healthcare services through telemedicine [985c9d2b]. This innovation has proven to be a valuable tool in providing medical care remotely, especially during times when in-person visits may be challenging or risky. The economy also demonstrated resilience as it survived a strong shock and quickly rebounded due to low taxes, minimal new regulations, and the adaptability of the capitalist system [985c9d2b]. These factors allowed businesses to adapt and recover, contributing to the overall economic recovery. Lastly, the pandemic led to an increase in school choice and homeschooling as parents became more aware of the shortcomings of public-school curriculums [985c9d2b]. This shift in education preferences highlights the importance of empowering parents to make choices that best suit their children's needs. Despite the ongoing challenges, these positive developments serve as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of individuals and communities in the face of adversity.