The COVID-19 Time Capsule Edition

We Persevere Quarantine Politics 2020 Covid & the Lost & Gained
Entrepreneurs Community
p. 10 p. 7 p. 30 p. 22 p. 12
One student’s story UA students Two students offer Downtown Akron Meyers School of Art
of testing COVID-19 capitalize on extra perspectives on the poised for strong students struggled to
positive. time. 2020 election. recovery. create.
From the Editor
2020 marked a turning point for the staff at The
Buchtelite. Previously, this publication has followed
a newspaper format, but during the spring of
2021 we began the transition towards becoming a
magazine.
This issue records the beginning of our future
collaborations with the community in and around
The University of Akron. In this issue we have varied
opinions from different voices and backgrounds.
We built this edition to document what it was like
to be at UA during the pandemic of 2020.
We reached out to students of various disciplines
to compile a large number of essays and creative
works, instead of focusing solely on news.
Cover Art:
Artist: Sophia Fugate is a junior double majoring in painting and
drawing and Graphic Design, minoring in illustration. The artwork
on page# was created with gouache.
We regret that we were not able to showcase all of
the different disciplines that represent our campus,
but we hope this edition will serve as a time capsule
for the students who lived through this period and
we are proud to present it.
This past year has pushed us to greater heights
and my goal as Editor-in-Chief is to make sure that
this magazine is reflective of each contributor and
the student body as a whole. All of us are looking
forward to publishing this magazine twice each year
for our readers. The magazine we are building will
retain the independent voice of UA’s students and
we hope it’s one you’ll enjoy.
Writers, photographers, journalists, designers,
artists, we invite you to join us in this new direction.
Your voice matters.
LeKesha Parkman,
Editor-in-Chief
IN THE ISSUE Lydia Boyer
Editor’s Note..................................................... 2 Nomz Sandwich Shop................................... 23 p. 15
Buchtelite Staff Table of Contents............................................. 3 UA Faculty Innovates Online.......................... 26
Thank a Retail Worker...................................... 4 My Time in Quarantine................................... 28
Editor-in-Chief &
Layout Editor Quarantine Entrepreneurs............................... 7 Pandemic Politics............................................. 30
LeKesha Parkman We Persevere................................................... 10 Remembering RBG.......................................... 33
My View of COVID-19’s Impact....................11 Mask Fashion................................................... 34
Managing Editor
Alyssa Alexsonshk Lost & Gained (Myers)................................... 12 How We Had Fun During COVID-19.......... 36
So Much Change (Faculty Perspective)....... 14 The 2021 Oscars Review................................ 38
Copy Editor Poetry by Ashleigh Kanengeiser.................... 15 Drive In Theatres Offer Safe Haven.............. 40
Ashleigh Kanengeiser
Loneliness & COVID....................................... 16 New Online Dating App for COVID............ 41
Arts & Entertainment A Word From President Miller........................ 18 UA Opera During COVID............................. 42
Editor In clouds view (poem).................................... 19 Clinicals During COVID................................. 44
Mckenzie Uhrig
Celebrating UA’s 150th Year......................... 20 Vaccines Bring Hope...................................... 45
Social Media Editor COVID & Our Community............................. 22 What We Lost & Gained............................... 46
Stephanie Fairchild
Faculty Advisor
Julie Cajigas

Administrative Featured Artists: Samantha Fazio

p. 41
Coordinator
Brenda Reichert
Naomi Boyer
Staff Writers: p. 12, 16
Jaina Gedeon
Isabella Anderson
Contact Us Summer Torok
Office: Kolbe Hall, Suite 208 Abigail Stopka
Sasha Dixon
p. 19
Mailing Address
The Buchtelite Contributors:
302 Buchtel Mall Kaitlyn Guynn, Elizabeth
Kolbe Hall, Suite 208 Heckler, Linda Marie
Akron, OH 44325-4602 Saliga, President Miller,
By Email: editor-in-chief@buchtelite.com Nicholas Welch

Printing for the COVID-19 Time Capsule Edition was made possible
thanks to the generous support of The Rollin S. and Doris R. Reiter Killian Reed
p. 4, 19
Fund of The University of Akron Foundation. Kaitlyn Saunders
p. 28 Emilio Melendez Kayla Weinman
p. 4 p. 13, 29
2 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 3

Essay:
Featured Image (below):
Artist: Emilio W. Melendez is
a senior graphic design major
minoring in marketing. The
artwork above, “Quarantine
Blues” was created with spray
paint, acrylic paint, soft pastels,
and collaged newspaper on
24”x36” canvas.
Those of us who are still coming into work come
into contact with hundreds of people every day.
Retail and food service workers are among those
whose professions put them at an “elevated risk” of
becoming sick.
However, it isn’t all doom and gloom. People
from various departments at my store have come
together to get products on to the shelves as quickly
as possible.
I’ve gotten to work with friends that I do not
see very often and I have gotten to meet and work
alongside people that I never before had a chance to
know.
Many of our customers have been great too. I’ve
had more than a few of them thank me for the work I
was doing, for cashiering and stocking shelves.
There’s been a lot of attention placed on “panic
buying” and that attention has been highly critical.
From what I have seen, though, these are not
hysterical masses that are attacking employees.
People are simply afraid, and they are doing
anything they can to ensure the health and
happiness of their families.
I ask that wherever you go (or preferably: don’t go)
during this time, be kind to one another. We are all
just trying to find our way through this crisis.
Thank your cashier, wave hello to your neighbor
from the mailbox, and check on your friends via
text or social media. We will get through this, as a
community and as individuals. It is just going to take
a little patience.

Thank a Frontline Worker During the COVID-19 Pandemic

(Right) Aisles that normally
house non-perishable foods and
other supplies are nearly empty
after shoppers engage in “panic
buying” due to COVID-19.
A lack of manpower and large crowds are making it difficult to keep products on the shelves.
(Left) Toilet paper has been
one of the most in-demand By Elizabeth Heckler, Social Media Editor
items.
Photos via Elizabeth Heckler
T he 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
pandemic has caused major changes to the
American workforce. Many businesses have
employees working from home and teachers are
preparing to teach in an online format.
Workers in restaurants, bars, movie theaters,
Editor’s Note: gyms and other social gathering places are facing
This story financial uncertainty as their places of employment
close down.
was originally Retail is one of the few industries that has not yet
published been shuttered by the virus. Many stores, especially
March 17, grocery chains, have seen masses of customers
stockpiling food and other supplies.
2020. We have While many businesses are now closing overnight
included it here to better sanitize the stores and restock shelves,
to document they are still open every day.
I have been working at Walmart for nearly two
some of years and I have never seen anything like this. My
our earliest coworkers, many of whom have over a decade of
experience, have never seen anything like this.
pandemic It’s the middle of March, but the store is busier
experiences. than it was in the week leading up to Christmas.
Most shocking to myself and others is the bareness
of the shelves.
Everything from lunch meats and eggs to canned
goods and pastas is decimated. It looks like people
are preparing for the end of the world.
However, there is no “shortage” of food and
supplies. Our store is still getting shipments every
single day.
The biggest problem is having enough people to
move the products on to the shelves. By the time we
stock a whole pallet’s worth of items, half of what we
just stocked is already gone.
Our online grocery pickup department, where
I normally work, is currently closed. There’s no
product on the shelves for us to give to online pickup
customers.
Walmart has made changes to their attendance
policy to protect workers whose health may be
seriously impacted by the virus. Still, some workers
are struggling with childcare options now that
schools are closed.
Others do not have enough paid time off hours
saved up to allow them to miss more than a day or
two of work before they are no longer paid.

4 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 5

 Brooke Se and Bill Schulz
AD
A s quarantine stretched on, some students
found themselves with time to spare.
Everyone used this time differently, whether it was
used for rest, working out, or taking up new or old
hobbies.
Some University of Akron students made the most
of isolation by attempting to turn their hobbies into
businesses.
For some, the hope was to just bring in some extra
cash during the height of the pandemic, but for
others, these attempts may prove to be path-altering
ventures.
A Tale of Two Businesses
For one student, just one business wasn’t enough.
Last year when not much was open, Brooke Seff,
a junior at the University of Akron, resorted to
spending most of her time enjoying the beaches of
Cleveland’s.
The more time Seff spent at the beach, she noticed
little pieces of beach glass washed up onshore.
“I knew I could create something using the beach
glass,” Seff said. “That’s when I decided jewelry
would be a great idea and after lots of trial and error,
I finally perfected the jewelry I wanted to sell.”
Seff set up an Instagram account @qtbs.jewelry
to sell and promote her jewelry and from there the
business took off.
6 Spring 2021
UA STUDENTS
BECOME
QUARANTINE
ENTREPRENEURS
By Summer Torok
Soon after that, Seff and her boyfriend, UA alum
Bill Schulz, started their own rug tufting business.
Like many Americans, the couple spent countless
hours watching TikTok videos.
After watching more DIYs they could count, one
thing caught their eye.
“We saw people tufting and realized we would
love to do that,” Seff said. Tufting, a type of textile
weaving, is also known as rug making.
They went online in search of a tufting gun but
were having a hard time finding one. According to
Tuft The World, tufting guns automatically adhere
yarn loops to a rung backing. Tufting guns from Tuft
The World would range from $275 to $875.
The tufting guns were difficult to get a hold of due
to being on backorder.
“My boyfriend and I are both very creative.
Together we decided that we had to come up with
something productive to do with our free time due to
COVID-19 boredom,” Seff said.
All Seff’s classes at The University of Akron were
online because of COVID-19, which allows her more
free time. Schulz is a videographer and has some
downtime in the winter months.
The rug business NoFluff took off in December of
2020 when Seff and Schulz started posting videos of
@gtbs.jewelry
themselves making rugs on TikTok.
The Buchtelite 7
 One video went viral on Seff’s account @
brookemakenzie_ with over 57.2K views of their
Rocket League rug. NoFluff’s social media began
to blow up.
A famous Youtuber, Treyten, who has 1.75
“A famous million subscribers, messaged Seff and Schulz
asking to purchase two rugs of his logo “Hey
Youtuber, Woah.”
Treyten, who The couple was so excited, in addition to
creating the two commissioned rugs, they
has 1.75 million surprised him with a third rug designed like
another one of his logos, in the shape of a donut.
subscribers, Treyten gave NoFluff a shoutout on his channel
causing NoFluff’s Instagram @noflufftufting to
messaged Seff gain followers.
While Seff was excited about the rug business
and Schulz taking off, she knew she could not leave her rug
business behind. Seff created an Excel document
asking to to keep up with both rugs and jewelry, and it
purchase two ended up working wonderfully.
A Star-Crossed Venture
rugs of his logo Another UA student, Kristina Hrnjak also
started a small business of her during the height
“Hey Woah.” of COVID-19. Hrnjak is a fourth-year student
studying history and philosophy.
According to Hrnjak, many people have had an
increasing interest in astrology since the start of
the pandemic.
People have been talking about their “big three”
which refers to their astrological sun, moon and
rising stars. Some take it as far as including their
signs in their social media bio.   height of the pandemic,” Hrnjak said. “But there
“This trend has been blowing up,”
said Hrnjak, “but it’s been in my life for the last
eight years.” 
In May of 2020, during
COVID-19 Hrnjak decided to begin charging
for astrological natal chart readings and tarot
readings. She has been studying tarot for so
long that she figured she should start making a
profit off her knowledge.  and more.
She would advertise on social media, mostly
Instagram and Snapchat. Sometimes she would
have customers who were simply interested
in astrology but did not have time to teach
themselves. Others were mostly old friends.   The company started taking off in Lanese-Martin’s
Despite her strong background, Hrnjak’s
business did not take off as she imagined.
For the customers Hrnjak did get, she provided
8 Spring 2021
them with a four to five-page natal chart reading
for $15. Many of her customers responded with
gratitude and amazement.
The business has been on and off as she
Kristina Hrnjak
occasionally offers readings through social
media. This semester of school has been busy and
challenging, and Hrnjak has not been offering
readings.  
 “It provided a bit of pocket change during the
is no telling whether I will continue this business
pursuit.” 
Hrnjak is grateful for the opportunity but does not
think she will continue this business in the future. 
Moving Fashion Forward in Isolation
Zoe Lanese-Martin is a junior at the University of
Akron majoring in fashion merchandising who also
practices designing, photography, styling, modeling
Zoe Lanese-Martin is the founder of Nina Marie
Co. The company is named after her grandmother
who passed away back in 2008, which is when she
formed the idea for the company.
junior year of high school when she started taking it
more seriously.
The four pillars of the company are branding, Lanese-Martin’s “Nouvelle Ere” collection, which Photos for this
photography, styling and designing, and consulting. means “The New Era” is to be released May 3, 2021. story provided by
Before focusing on her designs, she helped other This line features nature and neutral tones.
local brands. Nina Marie Co. And the fashion lines can be found
Brooke Seff, Bill
Lanese-Martin designs her shirts, then sends them on Facebook by searching “Nina Marie Co.” Schulz, Kristina
to a manufacturer to be made. Congratulations to the Zips who were able Hrnjack, Zoe
Lanese-Martin recently just did her first fashion
show as the designer– during the COVID-19
to turn quarantine into green, and who took a
risk during such a challenging time. Whether
Lanese-Martin
and Pixabay.
pandemic. The show, for her “A Treasure from the
East” line, was held on April 10, 2021. She was the
your venture is a long-term success or brings
some short-term happiness, your efforts have
executive director on the E-board and the finale been an inspiration.
designer.
This collection was dedicated to the Asian
community as a response to the hate crimes that
have been prevalent during the pandemic. A
Treasure from the East was meant to represent
Asian support from the Black community.
Nina Marie Co. Fashion Show
Producing a fashion show during quarantine gave
Lanese-Martin more time to sit down and work on
her business.
“At first we were a little skeptical about how the
fashion show would go considering COVID-19 and
it being right before spring break,” said Lanese-
Martin. “It went very well, and we were truly amazed
and grateful.”
The fashion show followed COVID-19 guidelines.
Guests were required to wear masks and were
spaced out. The models wore masks up until they got
Here, way, Vice, Nature, Love
on stage. Killian Reed, Latex Paint on canvas
The Buchtelite 9
 (because wow, did I miss brunch), to tell me that she
had tested positive for COVID-19. Despite months
of tirelessly cleaning, mask-wearing, staying home
regularly, and using hand sanitizer obsessively… I
knew I had to get tested.
The test itself was nothing but a mild discomfort
but waiting for the test results was maddening. My
A BRIEF REFLECTION ON THE YEAR OF THE PANDEMIC. cold began to worsen as I developed a cough and lost
my voice. I took my temperature religiously three
By Stephanie Fairchild, Social Media Editor
times per day, only to discover that I had no fever at

I
all. My tongue had a burnt feeling that wouldn’t go
t’s hard to believe few friends, but it felt wrong. And somehow, it still away, like when you bite into a pizza roll that just
that a full year felt lonely. The year, somehow, simultaneously came out of the oven.
My View of Covid-19’s Impact on
has passed since passed both briskly and at a sluggish crawl. Our Three days later, I got the phone call that I had
the World Health world was suddenly polluted with a whirlwind of tested positive for COVID-19. It was upsetting and
Organization
declared COVID-19
misinformation, fear and selfishness. I could taste
the lack of balance in the air, I ached for some
the idea of lingering or long-term effects terrified Graduation, Life in General
me. Thankfully, my case was mild, despite being
a pandemic. I can resemblance of normalcy. I knew I was not alone in asthmatic, and all I was left with was a lingering
still feel the fear that this. cough that was quickly cleared up by a steroid By Megan Parker, out how to cover this national news.
I felt in my chest People around me were suddenly out of jobs, late inhalant. Former Editor-in-Chief I remember listening to Governor
when classrooms on on their rent and buying every roll of toilet paper During my quarantine, I turned to art – something Mike DeWine’s daily press

campus were buzzing
with talk of the school
shutting down. I
remember hearing, “if
you have asthma, you
should be at home,”
A polaroid of Stephanie impatiently
awaiting her COVID-19 results. (Image as I looked down at
via Stephanie Fairchild) the inhaler in my
backpack. I skipped
the rest of my classes that day and drove straight
to my mom’s, in hopes to seek shelter from the
maddening world at my doorstep.
I remember getting the email that classes had
moved to remote learning. I remember being afraid
to go to work or the grocery store. I remember
hearing horror stories from other countries. I
remember having an anxiety attack in the middle
of my psychiatrist’s office. I remember watching
numbers climb and thinking that just maybe, the
world was ending after all.
I work in a bank and we closed our lobbies for two
months at the beginning of the pandemic. In May,
we reopened them, and I remember how uneasy
I felt from simply letting the general public back
inside. It was so strange, adjusting to people walking
into a bank with masks on. Yet, somehow even
stranger to see people refusing to wear them.
Months passed without seeing family and friends.
I broke quarantine on my 27th birthday to see a
that they could get their hands on. Nursing homes
and hospitals were put on lockdowns and the weak
and fragile were forced to die alone. My friend’s
parents and grandparents got sick. There was
suffering all around me.
And amidst the newfound chaos surrounding me, I
lost the illusion of permanence.
In the past, I’ve told myself, time and time again,
that the only constant thing in life is change. The
dysfunction and shift across the world should not
have taken me by such surprise, but it did. I found
myself suddenly wishing for simple pleasures that I
had once taken for granted…
A hug from a friend. Smiling at a stranger. Date
night. Eating out. Dancing. Classroom discussion.
Visiting my grandparents. Movie theaters. Swing
sets. Live music. Sweaty dive bars.
By the winter holidays, we had started to settle
into this strange, new reality, but case numbers
were higher than ever, often reaching over 10,000
per day just here in Ohio. Everyone wanted to
spend the holidays with their families, but health
officials advised against it. Some people still didn’t
even believe that COVID-19 was real, as hundreds
of thousands across America lost their lives to the
virus.
On January 3, 2021, I woke up with a cold. I didn’t
think much of it, until my boss called me while I
was waiting for a table at my favorite brunch spot
that this world has taken for granted for too long.
From stand-up comedy and award-winning films,
to live music streams and revisiting my favorite
albums, to virtual museum tours and a canvas and
paint porch drop-off, courtesy of my mom – art
kept me sane, hopeful and busy. Art can heal in
ways we often chose to ignore and take for granted.
COVID-19 gave me a new appreciation for what had
been in front of me all along.
As vaccines are now rolling out across the country
and mandates are beginning to be lifted, I can’t help
but feel hopeful for the future. Dreams of music
festivals, in-person graduations, weddings, hugs,
and travel fill my mind daily.
Over the past year, we have proven our
adaptability by coming together and supporting each
other in some amazingly unique ways. However,
being together physically is tangible, irreplaceable,
and something I can’t wait to appreciate the
simplicity of once again.
2020 was a year of rampant loss. The way we
interact with each other may be permanently altered.
But I believe that there is a happy ending to our
collective story.
I deem 2021 to be a year of hope and gratitude.
The year we stop taking things for granted, because
within a moment’s notice, they could be gone. The
year we realize “the little things” were always “the
big things” all along.
W
hen I was a kid, I dreamed
of crossing the stage at my
college graduation. It was a moment
I prepared myself for my entire life
because it would be one of my greatest
accomplishments yet.
In May 2020, that dream took
place differently than I had hoped
due to the pandemic. A virtual
graduation ceremony: a pre-recorded
acknowledgement of students’ success.
Although I knew that there were
limited options for the University in
terms of hosting a commencement
ceremony, I still felt crushed by the
nature of our pre-recorded one.
Personally, I wish UA would have put
forth more time and effort in hosting a
live, virtual graduation ceremony.
Nonetheless, I still look back on
my graduation with the huge honor
addressing my classmates as the
Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences
undergraduate student speaker.
The COVID-19 pandemic impacted
my undergraduate career in more
ways than just changing the style of
graduation. When the pandemic hit, I
was Editor-in-Chief and trying to figure
conferences and writing articles
about a few cases in certain counties.
Now, there are thousands of new
cases each day.
This was probably my first taste
of what writing in the journalism
field is actually like: fast-paced,
new information, and little editing
time before publication. Despite the
terrible circumstances, I enjoyed the
“new” process of writing news.
Many people will look back on
the pandemic and think of all the
negative aspects of what the world
went through. I, however, will try to
look back at all the positive things
that have come from it.
From revitalized hobbies to starting
new career paths, the pandemic gave
people the time and opportunity to
do these things. For me, I started and
am currently finishing my first year of
law school.
The COVID-19 pandemic has
impacted our lives in ways we never
imagined could be possible. And
although we may need to get used
to a new normal, I look forward to
seeing the ways we adapt.

10 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 11


A Moment, Please
Naomi Boyer, oil painting.
Senior sculpture major Sara Scott
How Myers School of Art Students Weathered the Pandemic
Lost &
Gained
By LeKesha Parkman, Editor-in-Chief
March 10, 2020 was a day filled with disbelief and
confusion. The rumor mill was rife with speculation
at UA’s Myers School of Art of an eminent shut
down because of the coronavirus(COVID-19). While
a pandemic wasn’t unprecedented, it certainly
wasn’t anything I thought I would actually live
through or be affected by. This feeling was echoed
by fellow graphic design major Kohl Spieker.
Spieker noted that he was naive to think he would
never have to navigate through a pandemic.
“Seeing how easily the pandemic popped up
restored a high level of gratitude for the medical
and science communities as to how important their
work is and how they keep us all safe from other
illnesses,” Spieker said.
Senior sculpture major Sara Scott
working on a project.
The shutdown occurred during the end of my
sophomore year, which was particularly stressful
(Image via LeKesha Parkman)
because sophomores in the graphic design
12 Spring 2021
major were preparing for Junior Review, which
would occur during the Fall of 2020.
The world was very much on my periphery.
My father was one of the first people I knew
who took the warnings seriously. Months before
Governor Mike DeWine announced a statewide mask
mandate, he asked both my sister and I to wear face
coverings, going so far as to buy one for me and mail
another to my sister who lives out of state.
Certainly this would all blow over? I thought.
That Tuesday, we learned the building was
shutting down at 5 p.m., which gave us less than an
hour to clear out. Everything we needed had to go
with us, because we weren’t sure when we would be
permitted back into the building.
In the halls there was pandemonium, especially
in the painting wing and ceramics building. Some
students were frantically carrying work that was
bigger than them.
How in the world will they be able to work? How
will we adapt? I wondered.
Senior Kayla Weinman was wondering the same
thing. As a ceramics major, she needed access to
the building. After receiving the news of Myers
closing, her professor Drew Ippoliti found her frozen
in her studio space chewing on her thumbnail.
She described feeling a wave of panic and anxiety.
Weinman was worried about junior review, which
was to be a culmination of years of study, but then
immediately felt guilty.
“It sounds so selfish. So many things were in my
head. Drew walked in and said, Stop panicking. Get
the stuff you need and go home. There is nothing
else you can do,” Weinman said.
In the aftermath the staff and faculty at Myers did
their best to reassure and communicate with the
students, but many of us had questions the faculty
didn’t yet have answers to.
“The world wasn’t ending (because of lost access to
Myers), but I felt like mine kinda was. I don’t think
people realize how intensive art school is, but this
is my life. I’m here maybe seven days a week, if I’m
not here I’m thinking about it. This is what I do,”
Weinman said.
Experiences with online learning varied between
students. For senior photography major Sarah Lacey
the experience left much to be desired. “I found, and
still find, online learning to be a curse for college
education and maybe even education in general.
It is so easy to skip class when you don’t have a
physical space to go to.”
For Lacey the pandemic took a toll on her mental
health. She shared that she struggled to find
motivation and creativity to create something she
could be proud of, which upset her greatly. She also
wished the hardship faced by so many could have
been avoided.
Senior sculpture major Sara Scott finds it difficult
to now plan for her future. “Who knows what that
even looks like anymore?” She wondered.
Scott caught COVID-19 a few days before students
were scheduled to return to campus, which has
affected her academically.
Popsicles
Kayla Weinman, Ceramic +
According to Scott, her case wasn’t severe, but
she’s still experiencing “covid brain” months later.
She suffers from cognitive issues now, and
struggles when reading and writing. She finds herself
making seemingly simple mistakes, something that
is difficult for her.
“It’s so bizarre and super frustrating,” she
explained before trying to make light of her
situation. “It’s like what happened to my brain? I
have a good brain, why is it not working?”
Students were also affected by the faculty layoffs
at UA. Spieker noted that while he was not affected
academically, he was affected in an emotional sense.
“It’s difficult to see someone that you believe
was an efficient and effective teacher with a long
tenure as a University of Akron professor get let go,”
Spieker said.
Senior painting & drawing major Abby Cipar said
that many students are still upset from losing faculty
that have been a major support system to them
through the years.
“I cannot stress enough that a pillar has been
removed from the Myers family. It is hard to come
by professors who truly love what they do and care
for their students personally,” Cipar said.
The professors at Myers are as impactful as the
curriculum, working together to give students
the best chance of success. During the initial shut
down one of my Professors, Robert Kelemen, was
particularly helpful. He sent emails frequently to
keep us updated on the unfolding situation. His
actions, like so many others there, helped to keep us
grounded. Even though as students we didn’t have
the whole picture, we knew our professors were
being thoughtful of our situations.
Returning during Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 has
been nerve-wracking, but it has been nice to regain
the collaborative atmosphere that permeates Myers.
It felt great to once again chat with friends working
in the front office and the Emily Davis Gallery or
to pass by former professors and classmates in the
hallway.
The year of 2020 was a truly unique experience
for all of us, filled with confusion and fear, but I am
grateful that there can be triumph through pain.
Lacey learned more about herself and her work by
being forced to try things she wouldn’t have without
added pressure. She found other positives as well. “I
ended up meeting a lot of amazing people, coming
out of this past year with a ton of new friends and a
boyfriend,” she said.
James Edwards, metalsmith major, said his
professor Sherry Simms had his class make a small
piece each week during online instruction, which
forced them to think outside the box. Edwards feels
that he gained a lot while working on those mini
projects because, “it taught me that I don’t have to
only work with metal to be a metals major. I can
work with all sorts of materials,” he said.
Ciper acknowledged that while there were some
positive things they experienced, they stressed the
importance of not overlooking the hardships the
pandemic brought upon the working-class.
As for myself, I learned how to be more adaptable
and relax the tight grip I had on my future. It’s okay
if I don’t know everything at all times. Sometimes
knowing what direction I’m headed in is good
enough. Life happens and it’s better when you learn
to go with the flow, no matter how scary.
Right: Untitled
LeKesha Parkman, Acrylic paint, ceramic stucco,
dimensional fabric paint on canvas
The Buchtelite 13
 A Faculty Perspective
SO MUCH CHANGE
By Linda Marie Saliga, Professor of Mathematics and Faculty Senate Chair
A s I think back to the beginning of the
pandemic, I marvel at just how naïve I can
be. Anyone who knows me well knows that I do not
follow the news closely and have no social media
accounts. I like to avoid the stress it can bring and
focus on my students, friends, and family. I read
headlines and will watch brief segments of news
reports so I did know that a new virus had been
discovered in China that was making a lot of people
very, very sick and that this virus had made its way
to Italy.
When I got to my office on a Tuesday morning
in the second week of March 2020, I heard that
Ohio State was going to be going online for the two
weeks after their spring break and wasn’t sure what
to think of that. Shortly after that I got a call from
the President’s office telling me that the President
would like to meet with the Faculty Senate Executive
Committee at 1:00 that afternoon. I had no idea that
we were going to be discussing doing something
similar.
Our discussion started with how quickly can the
faculty switch to online delivery, but soon turned to
determining if our students had the resources they
would need for online learning. The decision was
made to pause instruction until after spring break
(basically starting spring break a week and a half
early) when all classes would be delivered remotely.
While faculty worked diligently to learn how to teach
in a remote setting, the University purchased extra
Chromebooks and sought out resources and help for
students who might not have access to the internet.
It was a massive undertaking, and all hands were
on deck. I didn’t realize that all these arrangements
would be needed for the academic year to come.
In Spring 2020, I was teaching Linear
14 Spring 2021
Algebra and History of Math. Transitioning Linear
Algebra wasn’t too difficult. I used a tablet in class to
project my calculations as I talked students through,
and that transitioned easily to an online live
delivery. The problem for me in that course was that
I could no longer see the students’ faces while I was
teaching, and the already quiet group got quieter. I
was worried that they weren’t speaking up or asking
questions the way we would in person.
In History of Math, I was able to lean on a series of
wonderful documentaries about mathematicians and
mathematical breakthroughs that I show throughout
the semester to move the teaching online and keep
students engaged. I have since found ways to make
the assessments for those documentary experiences
even more interactive, to advance my online
teaching, but I will always prefer standing in front of
my class.
Course delivery wasn’t the only thing that changed
at the university because of the pandemic. UA had
been struggling for several years with financial strain
and enrollment decline. The administration shared
messages that the pandemic had pushed us into a
do or die situation where deep cuts were necessary
for survival. The first step was a reorganization of
academic units within the university. We spent the
month of May discussing how we could go from eight
degree granting colleges to five by redistributing
academic units. The idea here was that we could save
money on administrative costs. Unfortunately, that
didn’t create the cost savings needed so in July, UA
experienced a reduction in force (RIF) where nearly
100 faculty members and 82 staff members lost their
jobs.
When each of these events happened, stories
appeared across the country documenting our
actions. We went first, but I would hear from
colleagues across the country as they went through
similar reorganizations and reductions in the coming
months.
There was skepticism on the part of many in our
campus community, and more than once I heard the
phrase “never waste a good crisis.” As faculty senate
chair, I was inundated with colleagues who wanted
to know if the university was really in crisis, or if the
pandemic was being used to fast track cuts that had
already been planned.
Afterwards there was grief and guilt. The survivor
guilt sometimes made it hard to connect with the
colleagues I had lost to the RIF. The grief drained
my motivation and made a summer separated from
colleagues, alone at home harder to bear.
Of course, I couldn’t let my job be the only part
of my life to have major disruptions because of the
pandemic. After staring at our kitchen for months,
we decided we could no longer stomach the view, Lydia Boyer, Oil Paints
and decided to finally do the long-needed update. Allow me to sit and watch the world The art piece above is
We gutted the kitchen and it is now brand new. titled “Susceptible Year”
The destruction started in late October and we
Shut down and drown
and it was created in
moved back into the kitchen in late January. That’s Alcohol sterile; stinging, burning.
January. Originally, I
right, we had no kitchen through the 2020 holiday Sick society, society is sick.
planned to display the
seasons. We did have some fun with it - we hung a Breathe until your lungs can’t,
plastic skeleton and placed a small COVID-19 time- fatigue of the seemingly
Mass hysteria; in and out, in, out.
capsule inside a wall right before the last of the dry endless pandemic, but my
wall was installed. We were so ready to be done with 3/10/20 dread was interrupted
this year that we buried it! Everyone says it’s a pandemic by the sudden storming
As my house is getting back to normal, although of the capital a few
there are some kitchen items I can’t find, I am Shops are closed, there are no classes
days into the project.
looking forward my work life getting back to normal Social isolation has become endemic
This unexpected riot
also. With vaccines being rolled out, I am very Panic, this is what it’s like being anxious. inspired the shock and
optimistic that the university community will be able All this noise, and yet disbelief in my eyes. The
to return to campus in the fall. I can’t wait to have
lunch with my colleagues and students, to sit and
It’s the calmest I’ve been in years. mask is held to show
laugh together and get back to learning together. 3/20/20 that the pandemic was
To my students – you are almost there! You almost over, and the
survived a crazy transition last Spring, and you’ve
It’s a pandemic and there’s panic
various circles in the
had the stamina to move through these long months But it all feels the same. back represent the fear
of isolation and learning in environments that I’m essential, of COVID variants. In
weren’t always ideal. Some of you have thrived, Dispensable. the middle, the stark
and some have struggled, but I can say without a
doubt that you are going to make it. Know that your
4/4/20 angel earring disrupts
the painting’s colors to
teachers have struggles along with you and they can’t
wait for all of us to be together again. Poetry by remember the hope of
Christmas which was
See you soon! Ashleigh forgotten in this
Kanengeiser messy year.
The Buchtelite 15
 Loneliness and COVID
I started losing track of time. It’s hard to keep
track of time when you spend all of your time in
the same room. I have my work computer set up
in my living room, and I take my classes and do
Where to
arm, I could hardly even take care of myself.
I soon began to fall behind on schoolwork, and
my work performance also started to take a hit.
It is extremely hard to concentrate on work and

it's ok if you don't feel ok most of my homework in my living room as well.

Spending so much time in one small room
started to make me very depressed.
school when you don’t even want to get out of
bed in the morning.
I had never felt more isolated and alone
Find Help
I am not the sort of person to quit, so I tried in my life.
By Abigail Stopka not to let depression get in my way and to look to The beautiful thing about life, though, is that
the positive side of things as much as possible. people always make a way. If you aren’t feeling

I am a full- time college student and I work two

Ataraxia
Naomi Boyer, chalk pastel, reprinted newspaper clippings, black paper.
I titled this piece “Ataraxia” and made it as an expressive self-portrait
about my calm demeanor even in 2020. The portrait was meant to
depict the conflicting ideas and general chaos of 2020, especially the
Pandemic shown with the clashing fire and water in the background. I
wanted to demonstrate the anxiety and fear while I was peaceful and
looking toward the light for hope for the future.
jobs, a full-time position at Spectrum and a
part time position at The University of Akron’s
radio station, WZIP.
I see myself as a strong student and a hard
worker. Supporting myself through school hasn’t
been easy, but I have always been confident that
I will succeed.
COVID-19 has definitely rocked my faith.
During the pandemic, I chose to take a work
from home position. I figured it would be best for
me, so I could be less at risk for catching COVID
or spreading it.
The majority of my classes had also been
pushed to an online platform, so I was suddenly
spending more time at home and alone than ever
before.
At first, I did a lot better with this transition
than I expected.
Fall semester 2020, I did exceptionally well in
work and school. My metrics at work were great,
and my grades were the best they have ever been.
I passed through that semester with flying colors.
Over the winter break, transitioning into the
2021 spring semester, I started to not really feel
like my normal self.
As an extrovert, I crave social interaction, I
love meeting new people and seeing friendly
faces, but it was hard to get the same fulfillment.
The holidays weren’t as happy as they usually
were, since gatherings weren’t allowed.
I didn’t get to see my family or friends that
often, and when I did everyone wore masks, so I
felt as if I couldn’t really enjoy them in the same
way. After the holidays, it started to feel a lot
harder to deal with the reality of the pandemic
As I entered the 2021 spring semester, I had
high expectations since the previous semester I
had set the bar so high.
The first few weeks were a little rocky, then
I used some different strategies to address my
mental health including working out at the gym.
Thankfully, by reaching out to others, I have
found support to help me through this latest
ok, and you think
you need help,
Gym time really helped me with my stress levels bump in the road. My family and friends have please reach out
and allowed me to spend a little time outside of stepped in to keep my spirits high.
and find yourself
my house, which helped me keep my depression I’m so grateful that my professors and
under control. supervisors have been extremely understanding the support you
Then, things took another turn and slipped into and forgiving as I work through this. need:
a downward spiral. As vaccines have become more readily
In trying to get in the spring break mood and available, I’ve been starting to look more forward National Suicide
keep my depression at bay, I decided to pick to seeing classmates, professors and colleagues
Prevention
back up on an old hobby. I bought a skateboard, in person. It’s weird to think about what we used Hotline
thinking that more exercise and a fun activity to consider “normal life,” but it is giving me hope
would help with my deep feelings of isolation. daily. 800-279-TALK
Unfortunately, the older you get the weaker I may have taken it for granted before (8255)
your bones get. I fell off my skateboard, broke COVID-19, but I will never take it for granted
my elbow, and fractured another bone in three again.
Crisis TEXT Line
places. I was completely devastated. I think we can all relate to feeling some sort of Text “4hope” to
You don’t realize how much you use your arm isolation due to covid. As humans, we need other
until you can’t use it anymore. The accident human interaction and seeing faces through 741741
completely stripped me of my independence screens and behin.d masks just isn’t the same
and prevented me from one of the only things as in person and being able to see a pearly white ZipAssist
keeping me sane which was going to the gym. I smile.
Send a self-referral
would also need a surgery to repair the injury. I just want all my fellow Zips to know that it’s at uakron.edu/
This put me in a really dark place. I have never ok if you don’t feel ok. Many of us don’t feel ok
felt more isolated in my life, and with a broken right now. zipassist
Struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic email: uazipassist@
doesn’t mean that you aren’t a good student or a uakron.edu
good person. Other good students are struggling
Info Desk:
too. Being isolated, you may not realize it, but so 330-972-7272
many of us are in the same boat.
If you don’t feel ok, please reach out to family Visit ZipAssist in
and friends. Please reach out to your professors. Simmons Hall
Please reach out to ZipAssist or the Student
Health Center. Please call a crisis hotline and
UA Counseling
talk to someone. Center
We are all in this together, even if it doesn’t feel
like it sometimes. uakron.edu/
counseling
We are almost there, just hold on! 330-972-7082
It’s going to be amazing.

16 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 17

 A Word From Pres.. Miller
Image courtesy of the By: President Gary L. Miller
University of Akron
W hile 2020 was a year of hardship, it was also,
for those of us at The University of Akron, a
year of hope. What I have seen over the past year
from our students, faculty and staff has given me
tremendous confidence about our future.
WHY I AM
One evening last October, my wife, Georgia, and I
stood on the lawn of Buchtel Hall and led a toast to
commemorate the 150th anniversary of this beloved
HOPEFUL
institution. Thousands of alumni and friends,
participating virtually around the world, raised their
glasses with us. For a moment, they forgot the pain
of the pandemic, and celebrated. In the midst of
— and why darkness, it was a moment of light. In the midst of
sorrow, it was a moment of joy. It was a moment of
immense pride, of immense hope.
you should It was one of many such moments in our yearlong
sesquicentennial celebration, in which we proudly
remembered the achievements of this University
be too over the past century and a half. For example, we
offered the world’s first courses in rubber chemistry
and launched groundbreaking programs in polymers
and biomimicry. Our business, engineering and
psychology programs have been ranked among
the country’s best. We are home to the nationally
18 Spring 2021
"In clouds view" (poem)
recognized E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall and
one of only two national centers of choreography.
Our programs in the arts, music and literature are
some of the best in the country. Clearly, we have this blank canvas waiting in eye
many reasons to be proud. In recalling our past,
we found strength and inspiration to rise above the cast colors in green with more ease than mine
challenges of the present.
It is no surprise, then, that when COVID-19 hit click on yellow snap dash of red clack
— forcing students to transition to online learning;
to see their campus emptied and filled with signs, blooms in grander lens than meadows can retain
plexiglass and hand sanitizer stations; and to
experience graduation on the screen rather than the yet untouched hold much in slight white fickleness
stage — the response of our campus community was
remarkable.
Many of our faculty and staff worked 14-hour days never soft in rough
and seven-day weeks to rapidly transform their
courses and the campus environment. In the face Killian Reed
of nearly overwhelming technical and emotional
challenges, their commitment to serving students
Junior, English Major
never wavered. I cannot express how grateful I am
for their efforts.
Our students, in turn, demonstrated extraordinary
resilience and patience — and even heroism. Our
nursing students traveled to New York, an epicenter
of the outbreak, to treat patients. Our emergency
management and homeland security students
distributed medical equipment to health care
workers. Engineering students used 3D printers
to make face shields. Education students created
an online homework hotline for K-12 students
and their families. A law student created a website
allowing healthy young adults to deliver groceries,
prescriptions and other necessaries to housebound
and at-risk individuals. Many other inspiring
examples could be given.
On our website, we are currently nominating
“Zips Who Inspire,” members of the University
community who have inspired us through their
work, talents and generosity. While there are too
many to count and name here, I would like to
nominate all of the students, faculty and staff who
have proven that nothing, not even a pandemic, can
suppress the spirit of an Akron Zip. Like the phoenix
on the University’s seal, we continue to emerge from
the flames of trial, to renew and reinvent ourselves.
Quite simply, we keep rising.
That is why I am hopeful. That is why you Here, life, vessel, Nature, Love Sasha Dixon , Sculpture (2021)
should be too. Dixon is a senior studio art major minoring in drawing 
Killian Reed, Latex paint on canvas
The Buchtelite 19
 Celebrating
UA’s 150th
Anniversary
in COVID-19 AD
John R. Buchtel was born in 1820, in Green Township, Ohio, and we celebrated his 200th birthday during the 2020 By Alyssa Alexsonshk, Managing Editor
pandemic. The UA sesquicentennial Celebration included 40 years and 3 generations of Zips. Photo by Jennifer Dixon Viola)

O ctober 10, 2020 was The University of Akron’s

Sesquicentennial or 150 year anniversary, and
such a milestone called for a celebration of The
University of Akron and it’s rich history.
However, 2020
brought the obstacle of
“Zips from all the COVID-19 pandemic
over had the making it difficult to
hold a large in person
opportunity to celebration event
share what their without risking the
A UA themed festively decorated table ready to celebrate 150 years of The University of Akron. Photo by Jeff Savarise, and
Three Zips celebrating The University of Akron’s 150th Birthday. Photo by Tanya Kiefer
celebrations health of Zips. Keeping
everyone safe needed to
looked like by be a top priority during
posting content this time of uncertainty.
to social media The University of
Akron chose to be
with #UA150.” innovative, and instead
of having one large in
person event, many
smaller sesquicentennial celebrations were thrown
all over the world joining together to watch a virtual
livestream celebration.
Zips from all over had the opportunity to share
what their celebrations looked like by posting
content to social media with #UA150. This helped
bridge the distance between Zips. Even if parties
were miles apart, fellow Zips were able to have small
windows into other Zips celebrations though what
other hashtags posted.
Buchtel College was created by John R. Buchtel
who overcame many challenges and adversities.
Therefore, A COVID-19 pandemic was not about to
stop the legacy of The University of Akron family
Corporators and Trustees of Buchtel College Posing in Front of the College Building, 1872 Photograph by J. J. McFadden.
From The University of Akron Photograph Collection in Archival Services.
and friends from celebrating this historic moment.

20 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 21

 opportunity is lacking, there are people working to
make things better,” Caruso said. “Many owners
have made creative adjustments to their business.”
Restaurants like The Spaghetti Warehouse have
created socially distanced Trivia Nights to drum
up business. Others have implemented additional
student discounts that take 10% of more off of a
Nomz Sandwich Shop Experiences
purchase with a student ID. Two such businesses Success through COVID-19
COVID & our are PigOut Pizza & Barbeque and Blue: A Goodwill
Boutique.
A newly created Akronite app allows students and
By Summer Torok, Correspondent  

By Kaitlin Guynn, Guest Contributor
COMMUNITY
Director of The Downtown Akron Partnership,
COVID-19 has negatively impacted most local
locals to get more bang for their buck downtown.
According to a press release from the City of
Akron, the app incentivizes Akronites to shop locally
by rewarding them with specialized blimps that are
redeemable at participating Akron businesses.
“The Akronite app will enable the city to reward
customers for shopping local, improving revenues
for our small businesses while helping folks stretch
their dollars,” Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan said.
Above all, Caruso stresses the importance of
I
magine going out to a new restaurant with a big group of friends for lunch
after COVID-19 has passed. Your vegan friend can find a whole host of
options, your coffee-addicted friend can enjoy a full-fledged coffee bar, your
foodie friend can enjoy locally-sourced ingredients and you can eat a dessert
taco. Sound like heaven?
Then, Nomz, a new eatery in the Northside Marketplace might be just the
place you.
In 2018, Kassandra Morrison was self-employed with her first business, which
brought her to Northside Marketplace. While Morrison worked the front desk,
she noticed a trend of people looking for somewhere to get lunch. She talked

S
Photo Credits:
hut downs and COVID-19 restrictions have businesses. remaining hopeful in the face of adversity, for with fiancé Sam Lavictoire about the need for vegan and healthy options in the
Above: challenged the Akron business community, but “All businesses are struggling in some way during businesses and students alike. building, and proposed a solution.
Downtown by Tim Fitzwater “I’m hopeful and I believe downtown Akron
University of Akron students can help by supporting the pandemic,” Caruso said. “Whether they have The engaged couple had been dating for over a decade, and Lavictoire has
Right: Courtesy of local. been adjusting to changes to operating hours, ability businesses and institutions will thrive,” Caruso said. experience working in kitchens.
Spaghetti Warehouse “That closure hurt business a lot. One of my to host visitors, supply-chain delays and, most “Akronites are a resilient people and the things After some convincing, the couple opened Nomz.
Facing Page, Bottom: locations was never able to re-open after that first importantly, maintaining their health, as well as the planned for downtown are beginning to fall into Nomz opened in 2019 as a multi-concept restaurant that features a sandwich
Lock 4 by Tim Fitzwater health of their employees and customers.” place. I have no doubt there will be much more to shop, a bar and a ‘Treatery,’ where customers can enjoy ice cream and dessert
Facing Page, Top: According to Caruso, UA students can help support come.” tacos. It is located inside of the Northside Marketplace at 21 Furnace St. Suite
Avocado & Black Bean Sandwich local businesses in their time of need. Businesses are already thankful to The University 404, Akron, Ohio 44308.
Courtesy of Nomz Restaurant of Akron students.
“All of the downtown businesses are owned and “Very good food and drinks, such a cute little spot, I recommend it to anyone
operated by your friends and neighbors, people like “We always have students coming in here, and we who likes great quality food and service,” Josh Verbitsky, a Nomz customer said.
“Akronites you and people you know,” Caruso said. “Many times are very grateful,” King said. In the kitchen, they only use locally-sourced ingredients. This means their
the owner of the business is right there, working menu changes seasonally, four times a year to ensure they’re serving the highest
are a resilient alongside their employees, serving customers.” quality product. They also have plenty of vegan options.
The Downtown Akron Partnership is an Unfortunately, as with many businesses in the downtown corridor, COVID-19
people and organization that works to support businesses and had a major impact on the operations at Nomz. In March 2019, Nomz had to
enhance the community. As part of that, it keeps
the things closure in March,” Jim King, owner of Angel Falls a regularly-updated list of downtown eateries,
temporarily close. They reopened in June with completely new procedures.
“Upon reopening, we were welcomed arms open by the community and saw
planned for Coffee Company, said.
King explained that many businesses are in the
where students can find out how to support local
merchants.
success,” Morrison said. “Now it’s a constant wave, but by adapting we’ve been
able to make the best of it.”
downtown same boat, and that it seems as if there is nothing Downtown Akron has a lot to offer UA students, To help increase business after COVID, Nomz has been working with 22
more to do than to ride it out. even now, when the usual opportunities aren’t Exchange and The Depot apartments to this help bring in UA students. They’re
are beginning A manager at Akron’s Spaghetti Warehouse, who there. There are a number of ways students can get planning to host trivia Wednesdays and planning more events for spring and
preferred to be known as April, said even less people involved to help support local businesses. summer.
to fall into have been dining inside since regulations forced Caruso encourages students to get involved by Students may also enjoy the free internet as well as Nomz’ coffee and cocktail
restaurants to limit seating options. King noted a following the partnership’s #PictureYourSelfOnMain bar, which are perfect for studying, homework and relaxing.
place.” similar decline. hashtag and page for upcoming events, programs Nomz has merchandise available for purchase on their website and in-store.
And their struggles are in no way unique. and experiences. Their merch is locally screen printed by Micah Kraus. It can be found on
-Dominic Caruso According to Dominic Caruso, the Communications “There are opportunities here, and where Instagram @genarticle.
22 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 23
 Downtown AD
24 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 25
 to humanize incarcerated individuals and debunk “Much of the content in my courses lends itself mask if her classes were in person.

UA Faculty Shifts to
myths and sensationalist media portrayals,” she to an online environment quite nicely but striving “Letting go of the expectation that online learning will be the same as in-
continued. to meet student expectations as all classes on person learning has also helped me stay curious and be more forgiving of
Jauk always encourages students to remember to campus navigated uncharted waters posed a unique myself,” she added.

Online Education in
take “digital detoxes” when taking online courses challenge,” Fox says. “Overall, I think UA faculty When it comes to innovation, Braun starts by “meeting students where they
and emphasized her compassion for students who rose to the occasion, finishing out a most unique are, recognizing that they’re all living full and complex lives.”
must maintain jobs, have had COVID-19, have lost academic year as effectively as possible.” “Connecting with students as individuals and giving them opportunities to

INNOVATIVE WAYS
someone to COVID-19, and still manage to show up
for classes.
And of course, she appreciates the kindness of her
students, “Hats down to these resilient spirits and
Fox provided an example of her online innovation connect with each other—in breakout rooms, online chats, virtual discussion
by explaining the midterm project her students do in boards, or just a fun activity—decreases their anxiety and increases how well
her Social Media Marketing class. they work together and engage in the class,” she continued.
“Students conduct a critical analysis of a social Braun has had to rethink how she creates shared relevance with her students

due to COVID-19
perseverant achievers, who still manage to be kind media marketing trend that and with the course material by
in their communication with instructors, who are of is impacting the marketing showing how it connects to their
course humans too, in the same pandemic.” field and deliver their lives and experiences outside of
Dr. Adel Alhalawani, Assistant Professor of insights as a written blog the classroom. She encourages
Instruction in the Department of Biomedical post and then as a discussion students that plan to continue
By Stephanie Fairchild, Social Media Editor Engineering, joined The University of Akron in fall during a live stream event online learning to make the
2019. The most challenging aspect of converting to hosted on the Department effort by contributing to every

T he pandemic has abruptly changed the lives of

both students and faculty here at The University
of Akron. After writing an article last fall about how
students were feeling about the transition to online
learning, I wanted to give the faculty a chance to
showcase how they have innovated within the shift.
Daniela Jauk Ph.D., a second-year Assistant
Professor in the Departments of Sociology and
Criminal Justice and Akron alumnus, says that
“Hats down to the most challenging part of the shift was and still
is, “the trauma we all carry of not being able to
these resilient connect personally and the sickness and deaths we
spirits and are confronted within both the media and personal
environments,” as well as, “translating compassion
perseverant and a democratic learning environment into virtual
learning spaces.”
achievers, who When it came to innovating her teaching style,
still manage to Jauk says she has “amped up compassion, starting
each class by relaying to students that we cannot
be kind in their ignore the external and internal pressures; we need
communication to show up for each other and grant each other some
slack.”
with instructors, Jauk has chosen to work with no or flexible
who are of deadlines and has even created new assignments,
such as integrating creative and art assignments into
course humans the sociology classrooms to “create space for joy and
too, in the same creative, inspirational engagement.”
She has also used community partner Prison
pandemic.” Abolition Prisoner Support to connect students in
online learning for Alhalawani was, “engaging with
students virtually and incorporating class group
work and activities.”
“To adapt to online learning, I explored different
options such as using a smart screen, distance
learning classrooms, different video conferencing
applications and student feedback on what would
work best for them,” Alhalawani continued,
“distance learning classrooms worked really well,
especially for my dual-delivery classes and student
feedback and discussions allowed me to think
outside the box.”
His advice to students that plan to continue taking
online courses as restrictions loosen is to resist
all distractions that prevent them from learning.
Alhalawani urges students to communicate with
their instructors and don’t be afraid to ask them for
more engagement activities.
“Some tools that I implemented to help students
stay engaged were having cameras turned on during
classes, offering one-on-one meetings and utilizing
breakout rooms for group work,” he continued.
Alhalawani says one of the things that stood out to
him was his student’s adaptability to online learning
and their honesty with him to help come up with
solutions for some of the problems they face in class.
Dr. Alexa Fox, Assistant Professor in the
Department of Marketing, started teaching at UA
in 2017 and is a two-time alumnus as well. Fox says
of Marketing’s Facebook
page,” she explained. “While
the live stream event has
typically been filmed in-
person in the Taylor Institute
for Direct Marketing TV
studio, the event was adjusted
for the new online format
of the class. I worked with
MONSTERS Unlimited, a
local creative agency to make
this happen so that students
could still have a unique and
dynamic experience engaging
project.”
Fox emphasized pride
in how her students still
delivered high-quality trend
assessments to the audience
and shared useful insights
about whether or not the
social media marketing
trend they studied was worth
getting behind.
Dr. Heather Braun has
been teaching in the English
Department of The University of Akron since the fall
of 2013. For Braun, the biggest challenge has been
“reading the room,” by assessing the moods and
class in hopes that students feel
more seen and like a part of a
community that supports them.
One of the biggest things that
have stood out to Braun was a
recent situation with a student.
“She shared the challenge
of leading a group online and
which activities she had tried
that worked well, so I invited her
to design and lead an activity
for our class. Not only did doing
this give her confidence to
create improved iterations for
her student organization, but it
also encouraged others in our
class to give feedback and help
her improve and expand on her
Top Left: Alexa Fox, Assistant Professor in the Department of Marketing ideas.”
Top Right: Daniela Jauk, Assistant Professor in the Departments of Sociology and Braun emphasized that she
Criminal Justice is especially proud of how her
Bottom Right: Adel Alhalawani, Assistant Professor of Instruction in the
Department of Biomedical Engineering
students have moved beyond the
Bottom Left: Dr. Heather Braun, Associate Professor and Internship Liaison limitations of this moment to
(images via The University of Akron) ask for help, learn new skills, be
vulnerable and creative and help
others feel less alone.
Students and faculty have both experienced an unprecedented time
throughout the course of the pandemic.

-Daniela Jauk, her Intro to Criminal Justice class with incarcerated

pen– pals “to learn about the criminal justice system
that the most challenging aspect of transitioning to specific needs of a class. She shared she has been Here at The Buchtelite, we want to extend a round of applause
online learning was the struggle to set appropriate recently trying to reframe this, realizing that she sees to our faculty as they faced challenges head– on and created a safe
Ph.D. through the lens behind the bars with the purpose expectations. more faces online since everyone would be wearing a learning environment for all students at The University of Akron.

26 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 27


My Time In Quarantine
Featured Image: By Mckenzie Uhrig, Arts & Entertainment Editor
Artist: Kaitlyn Saunders
O n Wednesday, Oct. 21, my time in quarantine
is an art education major
minoring in illustration. The began. My roommates and I had found out
artwork above, “Self-isolation that we were in close contact with friends who had
during quarantine”, was tested positive for COVID-19. I immediately emailed
created digitally with Adobe my professor who I was due to see in my only in-
Photoshop. person class shortly after that to let her know I
would be quarantined for the next 10 days at least.
“Please I began developing symptoms on Thursday, Oct.
22, which was also the same day I was scheduled to
wear masks, get my COVID-19 test. My first COVID-19 test was
continue social done at drive-thru testing with CVS, where I was
able to pick the time slot I wanted.
distancing, and
I drove up to the drive-thru window where a
get vaccinated. licensed professional instructed me on how to do my
own nose swab test. I was required to wear a mask,
People are still even in the car, and I could only take it down while
dying from this performing the test. I was given a clear bag with a
nose swab, a container to put the nose swab in, and
virus. Protect a napkin.
others and do The nose swab was only 30 total seconds of my
life, during which I was told to insert the swab an
your part.” inch into my nose and swirl it around for 15 seconds.
28 Spring 2021
The nurse was the one who timed it, while I had
to do the swab in both nostrils. While my eyes did
water pretty heavily during it, the testing itself didn’t
hurt at all. Being uncomfortable for 30 seconds is
definitely worth finding out if you have COVID-19.
After swabbing, I had to put the swab in the
container and then put that back into the clear bag.
I was then told to use the napkin to lift the lid of
the box where the samples went. After putting my
sample in the box, I went home where I laid on the
couch all day with body aches, chills, migraines and
a sore throat.
Thursday, Oct. 22 was the worst day of my bout
with COVID-19.
As my friend group and roommates all got tested,
most came back positive with a few coming back
negative. We all had similar symptoms, but luckily,
none of our symptoms have been severe and no one
has been hospitalized due to complications.
I continued to experience mild symptoms
including congestion, headaches, sore throat,
decrease in sense of taste and smell and shortness of
breath over the coming days.
My test results came back on Tuesday, Oct. 27, and
I was negative. I was shocked.
Most people around me were positive and I was
experiencing all the symptoms.
I read my results over again and learned
something I didn’t know about COVID-19 testing.
Just because you test negative doesn’t mean
you didn’t contract the virus. It only means that Featured Artist:
COVID-19 was under the limit of detection in the Kayla Weinman
sample I gave.
Continuing to experience symptoms, I scheduled Senior Ceramics Major
to get tested with the University Health Services. I
called on the same day I received my results and was
scheduled to test on Wednesday, Oct. 28.
They called an hour before my appointment to fill
out my patient chart and informed me I would need
to call upon my arrival to be let in. Once I called in, All of these pieces
a nurse then led me to a separate seating area to fill
were made in
out a short form, and then came and brought me
into the clinic. 2020 during the
I was weighed and had my vitals tested, and all pandemic. The
were good except my heart rate was high. My mom following works
said that was my body fighting off the virus. Two
are inspired by
nurses took me to a room where they instructed me
how to perform my own nose swab again. I did the the feeling a
swab, which was actually not timed this time, so that person experience
was different. when they have
After the swab, another nurse came in to check me
out and ask me questions about my symptoms. Then
food addiction
or an unhealthy
I was given a sticker and released back into the wild.
I went straight home where I laid in bed. relationship with
My results for my second COVID-19 test came food.
back negative also, which was less of a shock as my
symptoms were getting better every day. With the
confirmed negative, my quarantine/isolation period The main medium
was over on Saturday, Oct. 31. used in all these
COVID-19 was not a fun virus. Even though I
sculptures are
never tested positive, I had mild symptoms, which
were annoying to deal with and the bad days were ceramic along with
rough. some additional
Quarantining with my roommates caused some materials including,
friction too, with arguments and times when we all
oak wood, cherry
ignored each other, but I don’t think we would have
gotten through without each other. I also got behind wood, catalyzed
in my in-person class a little, but my professor was acrylic (automotive
very helpful and I was able to catch up. paint), spray
Luckily, my bout of COVID-19 didn’t have a
permanent impact on my life, but for some, it does.
paint, wax, fiber,
Please wear masks, continue social distancing, and underglaze, and
get vaccinated. People are still dying from this glaze.
virus. Protect others and do your part.
The Buchtelite 29
 Pandemic Politics
By: Alyssa Alexsonshk
T
he year 2020 has been eventful in many aspects, but especially politically.
History was written this year that will forever sculpt our nation. We
witnessed both great tragedies and remarkable accomplishments, from both the
conservative and liberal points of view.
President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence ran against former
Vice President Joseph Biden, and Senator Kamala Harris in one of the most
divisive presidential elections in our nation’s history. The outcome was a victory
for the Democratic party with now former President Trump transferring power
to current President Biden.
To gain insight into how students perceived the politics of 2020, we have
asked two University of Akron students to reflect on a series of questions.
Sophomore, Sophia Fisher, a current political science major and executive
director of Stop the Demand Project a non-profit will represent the conservative
voice and senior, Carl Kelemen, a civil engineering major and president of the
College Democrats at UA, will be addressing the liberal perspective.
What is the legacy of the Trump Presidency?
Fisher: During President Trump’s time in office, he accomplished a great deal
for the American people.
On December 22, 2017, President Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(TCJA) that benefits middle-income families, increases market competition, and
provides more opportunities for American citizens.
On November 30, 2018, President Trump, along with Canadian Prime
Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, signed
the United-States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), replacing the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This trade deal greatly benefits all
parties involved. The USMCA will increase jobs, and allow for freer markets and
trade. something new with many goals to remove troops.
The Trump Administration also sought to bring about reform to the criminal
justice system. On December 31, 2018, President Trump signed the First Step
Act. This bipartisan bill will reduce recidivism and focus on giving second
chances to prisoners.
30 Spring 2021
With the current threat to free speech on college
campuses, President Trump signed an executive
order on March 21, 2019, to protect first amendment
rights. As a college student, I’ve personally been the
subject of intolerance and harassment for having a
different opinion. This executive order will allow for
impartiality and the protection of open debate on
our college campuses.
On January 31, 2020, President Trump signed an
Executive Order on Combating Human Trafficking
and Online Child Exploitation in the United States.
This executive order added a new position under
the Domestic Policy Council office in the White
House dedicated to expanding resources for victims,
funding school programs, and putting an end to
online child exploitation. In the history of American
Presidents, Donald J. Trump has done the most to
fight this heinous crime.
Overall, President Trump along with the entire
administration put America first by combating
human rights abuses, increasing military funding,
lowering taxes, and championing civil rights.
Kelemen: Trump’s presidential legacy will be
very mixed. Ultimately, I believe he will rank among
the worst president in American history on domestic
issues. Under Trump our debt ballooned, wage
disparity widened (top got richer while middle and
working-class got poorer) we lost many good-paying
union jobs in the Midwest (auto, steel, etc.) and
we literally killed many people with our COVID-19
response. His foreign policy will be a bit different,
however. I still believe that his foreign policy was
weak and ineffective, but he did try something new.
For years we had been trying and failing to sanction
and bomb our way out of issues which Trump did
not. For example, the Obama and Bush policies
toward North Korea did not stop an adversary
from gaining nuclear technologies and Trump tried
something new. It too failed, but he tried.
Trump also tried something new in the Middle
East which was a change from the previous two
administrations. Obama and Bush both had troops
sent to the Middle East and failed to make much
tangible progress towards peace. Trump tried
It ultimately destabilized the region more and has
led to the assassination of the majority of the Afghan
government as they tried to negotiate peace with the
Taliban and the murder of many Kurdish fighters,
who were our allies in the Middle East, as we
just left them to their own devices, but he did try
something new.
Should Former President Trump have been
impeached?
Was Covid-19 (crisis) handled Fisher: There is much debate as to whether President Trump’s words rose to
the level of inciting insurrection. Although the Capitol riots were unfortunate,
properly? Why or why not? the facts seem to suggest that his rhetoric did not constitute an impeachable
offense of high crimes and misdemeanors. We live in highly politically charged
Fisher: “The Trump administration along with times. As such, agendas for impacting the electorate, under any means, are
the COVID-19 task force handled the pandemic in
causing a large division in our country. If you evaluate the facts surrounding a
a swift and proper manner. President Trump along
case for impeachment, it seems as though he should not have been impeached by
with many others displayed exemplary leadership. At
the house.
the beginning of 2020, President Trump introduced
a travel ban on China, increased COVID-19 testing,
Kelemen: Yes without question, Donald Trump should have been impeached.
actively worked with the White House coronavirus
His actions at a rally just hours before directly lead to armed domestic terrorists
task force to slow the spread and safely re-open the
marching towards the capital where the certifying of an election and one of the
economy, and refused to waiver and back down to
steps to a peaceful transfer of power was occurring. Many of these terrorists
the Chinese Communist Regime. On May 15th of
may have gotten a bit lost in the crowd at the moment, but when you have
2020, President Trump introduced Operation Warp
known right- wing extremists like Alex Jones (who has been previously involved
Speed. This exponentially accelerated the vaccine
in many horrible acts, including a sustained denial of the Sandy Hook School
rollout.”
Shooting among other events) telling the crowds they are going too far, it is
obvious that some knew their actions were unlawful and undemocratic.
Kelemen: “The politically charged rhetoric The words of the president were explicit, “We must stop the steal and then we
around COVID-19 has made it difficult to do real
must ensure that such outrageous election fraud never happens again, can never
health messaging and research. The GOP line of
be allowed to happen again, but we’re going forward… So, we’re going to, we’re
open everything and the democratic message of we
going to walk down Pennsylvania Avenue, I love Pennsylvania Avenue, and
need to stay smart were both the wrong message
we’re going to the Capitol, and we’re going to try and give… The Democrats are
scientifically. For example, we opened restaurants
hopeless. They’re never voting for anything, not even one vote. But we’re going
and bars before we opened schools, but Israel
to try and give our Republicans, the weak ones, because the strong ones don’t
opened schools after the first few months of the
need any of our help, we’re going to try and give them the kind of pride and
pandemic. It shouldn’t have been a should we open
boldness that they need to take back our country.” (Trump, 2021)
restaurants, it should have been a can we send kids
There is no doubt that telling a group of highly armed people to give “pride
back in a safe way.”
and boldness” is a pretty clear call to arms, especially if you believe the idea that
the election was stolen.
How would you classify and
define the events Were you surprised by the presidential election
of January 6, 2021? results that ended with President Biden being
Fisher: January 6 was a sad day for our country. named as the 46th president?
There is no justification for the violence that
occurred at the Capitol. Those who partook in the
Fisher: No, I was not surprised. Even though President Trump accomplished
a lot during his time in office, I believe it was his pride and ego that led him to
egregious acts that led to the breach must be held
losing re-election. The 2020 election had the largest voter turnout in American
accountable.”
history. President Trump had 74 million votes and Biden with over 81 million.
Many Republicans spewed rhetoric stating that the election was completely
Kelemen: The events of Jan 6 were an attempt
fraudulent. To be clear, every election is bound to have some level of fraud occur.
to overthrow a democratically elected government
However, there was no substantial evidence produced that suggested there was
and an attempt at the assassination of many political
enough fraudulent activity to overturn the results of November 3.”
leaders in the place where debate is supposed to be
the heart of America.
Kelemen: I was not surprised with the results showing Biden being
The Buchtelite 31
president, but I was surprised how close the vote
was. Looking back is the wrong way to be looking
at this issue. Currently, in almost every state in the
country, at least the GOP, and in some states, the
Democrats, are introducing bills that will make it
harder for minority voters and folks who haven’t
voted in a few cycles to vote. To be clear, the 2020
election and 2021 run-offs were some of the most
secure elections in the history of the country and
now states are trying to figure out how to maintain
their power through disenfranchisement and not
broadening their policies to actually serve the
growing diverse population that makes up the
United States.
Kamala Harris is the first female
vice president and the highest-
ranking female official in U.S.
history. What kind of impact do
you think she will have?
Fisher: First off, I think it is incredible to see
women gaining more power and influence in politics.
Kamala Harris broke the glass ceiling. In the history
of American politics, no woman has ever served as
vice president. She has an extensive resume and
well understanding of how the government works
with her background in California politics. As for her
impact, I hope she serves the American people with
their best interests in mind.
Kelemen: I personally don’t know how much of
a direct impact Kamala Harris will have. Her win
is very historic, and I believe can be a great symbol
to show people that when we say anyone can be in
the White House, we mean anyone regardless of
race or gender. In terms of her policy impact, I do
not believe it will be much. Historically the vice
president hasn’t had much of an impact and has
been more of a messenger for specific things while
following what the president is doing. It is worth
noting that because the United States Senate is split
50 Democrats* and 50 Republicans, she could decide
to just not break a tie and have a policy impact that
way, but it is very unlikely she’d vote against a bill
that has the entire Democratic caucus given she
was rated as one of the most liberal senators. *The
Democrats have two independents who caucus with them
making the actual number 48D / 2I / 50GOP
32 Spring 2021
Did the events 2020 affect your
political views in any way?
Fisher: Definitely. The events that took place in
2020 encouraged me to think critically about my
political views. Although I have my core beliefs,
I grew in my compassion for those who have
differing opinions. It is okay to have alternative
views, as long respect remains intact. Additionally,
I strongly believe love can coexist with a desire to
fight for the truth. Seeking to understand others is
crucial to growing as a society. The events of 2020
caused a lot of hurt, pain, controversy, and division.
However, hyper-partisanship and polarization does
not have to be the status quo. Maintaining respect
and championing civility is imperative to a healthy
democracy.
Kelemen: Honestly, no. I have viewed the
majority of GOP politicians as working against
working people. Long gone are the days of the GOP
that just wants to cut taxes and watch the deficit.
The current GOP has passed laws that will stop
treatments for certain groups like the transgender
healthcare bills in Arkansas, the elimination of
worker’s ability to bargain for better wages through
right to work legislation and a focus on stripping
rights and freedoms from people either through
legislation like heartbeat bills for abortion or
appointing judges with a political agenda that will
strip rights from individuals.
Sure, it was stunning to watch the GOP literally
advocate for killing people with opposition to a mask
mandate, but honestly, the GOP is now the party of
the minority, and they are legislating to ensure they
can get elected only needing part of the minority.”
In a time of uncertainty, one thing is for certain.
People often have different views and opinions.
America is a country of freedoms that people can
express different views. You can agree with or agree
to disagree with these perspectives, but that makes
America great.
Images courtesy of Whitehouse.gov and the Library of Congress.
In Memoriam
Remembering Associate Justice Ruth Bader
Ginsburg’s Impact on History
Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away on Sept. 18, 2020 due to metastatic
pancreatic cancer. (Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States)
T
By Alyssa o be honest, I didn’t know much about Justice
Ginsburg, until recently. I was not aware of her
Alexsonshk story, the impact she had on the way society is today
or the ripple effect of her life and its impact on me.
If Justice Ginsburg was not fighting for equality,
the U.S. would be very different. Many people from
different walks of life were helped by her firm beliefs
of equality for all.
Who was Justice Ginsburg passed away on Sept. 18, 2020.
Following her death, my social media account blew
Justice up with posts honoring her life and mission. It was
clear to me at this point this woman must have had
Ginsburg and a great impact, if so many people were passionate
what were her about expressing their gratitude for what she had
done.
significant The seed was planted: I knew I needed to learn
more about Justice Ginsburg’s story and all the
contributions accomplishments she had in life.
that helped Justice Ginsburg was born on March 15, 1933.
She married Martin Ginsburg at the age of 21 and
create the they eventually had two children; Jane and James.
United States As a wife and a mother, Justice Ginsburg attended
Harvard Law and Columbia Law to earn her law
as it is today? degree.
Justice Ginsburg was appointed in 1993 by former
President Bill Clinton, only the second woman and
the first Jewish woman to hold a seat on the U.S.
Supreme Court. She was well known for her impact
on equal rights and her advocacy for women’s rights.
Justice Ginsburg has a long list of major
accomplishments following her time in law school,
leading up to serving on the Supreme Court.
Especially when one considers the culture and times.
My interest peaked when I found the documentary
“RBG” on Amazon Prime Video, which portrayed
many interesting turns in her life journey. I admire
her hard work and dedication, coming from a family
of immigrants and working her way up in life.
Both Justice Ginsburg and her husband died
from cancer. But the whole time Justice Ginsburg
went through treatment, she did not stop working
toward social justice and advocating equal rights.
Sometimes, she had to be reminded to stop and
focus on her cancer treatment.
Additionally, Justice Ginsburg fought through the
roadblocks of women having equal opportunities.
This became one of her personal missions and
through perseverance, she was able to help change
the laws and our culture.
She voted with her conscience and always stood
up for what she believed in regardless of what other
people thought about her political affiliation. If she
made a mistake, Justice Ginsburg willingly admitted
it to the public rather than covering it up or hiding
it. These qualities are why she was so well respected
by people and are sometimes forgotten by politicians
today.
According to Academy of Achievement, in
Weinberger v. Weisenfeld, she fought for a widower
male’s right to gain social security for his children.
In Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire, she fought for
a female who was being paid less than a male
colleague.
But most importantly, Justice Ginsburg always
saw people as human beings first, especially through
her great friendship with former Associate Justice
Antonin Scalia. Often times, Justice Ginsburg and
Justice Scalia were on different sides politically in
various issues, they viewed each other as individuals
and respected each other’s political views. Isn’t that
what society needs more of these days?
I personally did not agree with every political view
portrayed in the documentary. However, I believe
she deserves more credit for her accomplishments
and her impact on history. America will miss Justice
Ginsburg’s presence but will feel her legacy for years
to come.
The Buchtelite 33
Best of
MASK FASHION
at UA
Even with close friends’ masks were necessary to protect each other, here UA
students enjoy a masked birthday party. In the photo from left to right are public
relations senior Katie Carpenter, biomedical science freshman Hailey Essinger, fashion
merchandising junior Cassie Garcia, and biomedical science senior Hallee Bradac.
(Image via Cassie Garcia)
Mckenzie Uhrig
D uring the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
pandemic face masks became a necessary
part of everyday life to slow the spread of the
virus. Around the world, masks were designed and Third-year University of Akron engineering
student, Tina Grassi, Models a one-of-a-kind
manufactured by thousands of different companies
tie-dye mask. (Image via Mckenzie Uhrig)
and clothing brands. As the pandemic went on the Penn Foster veterinary technology first year
designs for these masks started to get more creative student, Kiley Bush, wears a spring inspired
cloth face mask. (Image via Sara Schaub)
and some even told a story.
Masks became another accessory of everyone’s
outfits, they were and continue to be another
way to show off individuality and personal style.
Some people started sewing masks, some bought
customized masks online, and others bought their
masks from the brands they love. I bought masks
from my favorite brand, Steve Madden, and tie-dyed
white cloth masks with my family.
The designs have become more unique and
entertaining; one customized mask was created
to look like a mouth so that the wearer appeared
to have a giant smile. The restrictions set in place
encouraged people to get creative with their mask
designs. It allowed everyone to come together and
have a good laugh during a very dark time where
lives were lost, and the world stopped.

Alex Evans, a third-year majoring in

information systems, models a tie-dye mask.
(Image via Mckenzie Uhrig)
Fifth year UA fashion
Roommates Tina Grassi and Madi Britton, both
merchandising student, Sara third-year engineering students at the University of
Schaub, has mastered the art of Akron, have some masked fun in the snow. (Image
matching her face masks to her via Mckenzie Uhrig)
outfits. (Image via Kiley Bush)

34 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 35

How We Had Fun During COVID-19
By Mckenzie Uhrig, Arts & Entertainment Editor
W ith so many businesses shut down due to the
2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) many
people lost their outlets for entertainment. Everyone
had to discover new ways to enjoy their favorite
activities or discover new activities to enjoy. Movies
were watched from our homes, home gyms were set
up, and dinners were cooked at home. Everything
had to be adapted to ensure the safety of everyone
involved and to slow the spread of COVID-19.
During stay-at-home orders, nothing except
essential businesses were open, which left little
options for entertainment or ways to be active.
As the pandemic went on, activities started to
be judged by how at-risk a person was to contract
COVID-19. Low-risk activities were those where
exposure was unlikely due to the ability to distance
from others. Most outdoor activities were considered
low-risk. High-risk activities were avoided by many.
Nature walks, hiking, and neighborhood walks
became extremely popular because they were
fun ways to stay active that were safe during the
pandemic.
Hiking the Trail
Hiking was one of the safest activities during the
pandemic because social distancing was easy to follow
on long trails. Hiking trails and parks had to follow
COVID-19 guidelines from both the state and federal
Waterfalls at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Photo by: Mckenzie Uhrig
36 Spring 2021
government. Summit Metro Park had various signs Featured Image:
stating the guidelines that guests were required to Artist: Naomi Boyer is
follow, including social distancing and masks. an art education major
“Summit Metro Parks thanks our community for minoring in illustration.
The artwork on page# was
helping us keep the parks safe, clean and open during
created with acrylic paints
this public health emergency,” said Stephanie Walton, on a canvas.
chief of Marketing & Communications for Summit
Metro Parks.
“I titled my art piece
“My Dungeon Master Is
Night at the Museum
Trying to Kill Me” and
For other activities, following COVID-19 guidelines
created the painting to
while still providing an authentic experience became depict my life during
complicated. Museums were some of the first the Coronavirus break.
experiences to have to completely overhaul their usual My friends and I didn’t
operations. want to give up playing
While museums may have been some of the first Dungeons and Dragons,
so we decided to play it
operations to close to the public, they were also
over Google Meets. This
some of the first to figure out new initiatives to
painting shows my dice,
engage the public virtually. The Cleveland Museum tablet, and sketchbook all
of Art was one of the first museums to launch its on my fuzzy blanketed bed
online initiative, “Home Is Where the Art Is,” which and defines the chill vibe
educated at-home viewers on various artworks and and memories of online
even conducted art classes virtually. Dungeons and Dragons.”
Cleveland Art Museum, Photo by: Julie Cajigas
Kelley Notaro Schreiber, the Communications and mall to walk around with friends, grab lunch, and portraits can be taken
Media Relations Manager with the CMA, said this shop. This became a high-risk activity during the from a safe distance. And,
regarding the introduction of the initiative: “When we pandemic. Online shopping, take-out, and food if you are just learning,
closed on March 14, we immediately began thinking delivery services became a necessity for everyone to you can photograph just
of ways in which we could keep the community slow the spread of COVID-19. While doing things about everything for
engaged while our physical space was unavailable. online isn’t quite the same, companies helped make practice,” said Amy Lyn
With this initiative, we leveraged technology the transition easier by offering online deals and of Amy Lyn Photography,
to bring works of art to the community, responding exclusive offers to make it more beneficial. Certified Professional
to changing needs in new, enriching, and innovative The few times I did get to go to the mall during the Photographer.
ways,” she said. pandemic it was a completely different atmosphere COVID-19 changed
Socially Distant - Together and experience than what it used to be. Signs with the way the world
Some groups got creative to provide a safe COVID-19 guidelines were plastered on every wall, functioned, everything
atmosphere for participants. The JustUs Line stickers on the floor were used to keep customers six had to be adapted to
Dance Crew gave dance classes outdoors with social feet apart, masks were enforced, and each store and ensure the safety of
distancing and mask rules enforced. Participants in area had a limited capacity. While this helped keep society. Companies,
these events had to sign COVID-19 liability waivers to everyone safe it was one of the first times, I realized businesses, brands,
just how much the world had changed during the everyone had to come
pandemic. together to figure out
New Hobbies how to safely continue
COVID-19 caused people all over the world to regular operations.
become isolated from their friends and family during It took a while for
lockdowns, even when lockdowns are lifted, limited distancing measures,
contact and distancing are likely to still enforced.
capacity restrictions,
New hobbies and events like line dancing that provide
and mask mandates
distraction, enjoyment, and connection during these to be determined and
times are likely to stick. implemented across the
Personally, my family started exercising together, world.
Lead instructor and JustUs LDC co-founder, Terrence L. Payne my sister and I took up skateboarding, and I started During this time, we
Sr., directs the participants through line dancing routines.
(Photo by Carmen D. Payne, co-founder of JustUs LDC)
learning to cook. lost a lot of people to this
Hobbies during the time of the pandemic became virus, and it was a very
more important than ever. One hobby I noticed many scary and dark time for
attend for contact tracing purposes. Through their use people taking up was photography. Photography the entire world. The
of strict COVID-19 guidelines and engaging line dance was an effortless way to express creativity and it was way to get through this
routines, participants were able to stay active and safe something interesting that you could learn on your is together, by following
during the pandemic. Socially distanced classes such own. Photography provided a safe and creative outlet guidelines imposed by
as these popped up everywhere due to their ability to for those during the pandemic to express themselves the government, being
allow people to have the human connection they were and their feelings during a time when everyone was considerate of your fellow
missing in a safe environment. struggling. humans, and of course,
Shopping in New Ways “Photography is a great activity during COVID still finding ways to have
Before the pandemic, I used to love going to the because you don’t need to be near anyone. Even fun.
The Buchtelite 37
The Oscars Are a are also seeing the new normalcy of having to pay
between $20-$30 just to watch a movie from your
couch, which at times I think is quite ridiculous,
especially when there are drive-ins all over the
nonsense was taken out for the most part and the
awards were the main focus of the night.
I am happy with the winners of awards overall.
As always, there were some categories that I wished
winner has been a woman of color, is completely outrageous to me. There needs
to be a big change in Hollywood when it comes to the representation of women.
Even growing up, I had the perception that only men could make movies since
they were the only ones being awarded and hired.

Complete Sham,
country showing new releases at a fraction of the
price. This shows how greedy multimillion- dollar
companies can be and how they completely overlook
the little guys. Now don’t get me wrong, indie film
companies must do this to keep afloat during these
tough times, and I completely support them. I just
have an issue when companies that have a mouse in
went other ways, but nothing that made me too
angry. There were some major highlights for me, and
I want to mention a few of them.
The first award of the night was for best
original screenplay, and it went to Emerald
Fennel for “Promising Young Woman.” This
movie was the last one of The Oscar nominated films
Many complain that The Oscars get too political when speaking about social
justice issues, climate change, and more. I personally think this is one of the
best platforms to get messages out. The Academy needs to follow by nominating
more people of color, including more than white men on committees, celebrating
not just movies made in the US, but all over the world, and so much more.
Overall, I think The Oscars are going towards the right direction, but there
needs to be a stronger push not only from audiences, but from people in

But I Love to Watch Them
By Jaina Gedeon, Film Critic
“The 2021 I t is not a secret that The Oscars have a long-
running rumored history of having movie
companies pay off members to get them to the
Oscars felt best picture award. Most of the time it seems like
phenomenal movies and actors are snubbed to
completely let high-budget movies take award slots. Look at
the 2019 Oscars when “Green Book” won the big
their logo take complete advantage of consumers.
That being said, I managed to watch most of this
year’s nominees either through streaming services
and only renting a small amount of them. This was
the first year where I had not seen any of them
in a traditional sit-down movie theater which is
crazy to me. The last Oscar movie that I had seen
in theaters was “Parasite,” back in January of
2020. I saw it by myself and I felt like I was being
sucked into a different world; like I was with all the
characters. Having to watch them at home or my
work office, simply does not feel the same. I hope the
idea of traditional movie theater does not completely
disappear due to the pandemic.
I had always grown up watching different kinds
of movies and escaping into these cinematic worlds.
I am named after a Star Wars character, (from the
books) so liking movies was a part of my DNA.
that I watched only days before for the ceremony
and it completely blew me away. As a woman and
college student, this movie was so impactful for me,
and I believe that every single person should see it.
Hollywood that have a say in what happens behind the scenes. As a movie
reviewer, I constantly try to immerse myself in different movies and viewpoints
that I do not personally experience. I know some do not go out of their way to do
this, but I hope that others take the initiative to do the same.
This was very well deserved, and I can’t wait to see I hope for a future where I can see more women, people of color, LGBTQ+,
what Emerald Fennel does next. individuals with disabilities and more be represented at The Oscars like they
Yuh-Jung Youn won best supporting deserve to so kids, teenagers, and adults can look up to people that actually
actress for “Minari.” She was the standout star represent them so they can change the future of filmmaking.
for this movie and deserves this award so much. Her My favorite quote from this year’s movies must be from Nomadland. “I don’t
character takes a big shift towards the end of the ever say a final goodbye. I always just say, ‘I’ll see you down the road.’ And I do.”
movie, and nobody would be able to duplicate the The Oscars, I know you are a complete sham, but I’ll see you down the road.
performance that she delivers. It is also important to
note that Yuh-Jung Youn is the first Korean woman
to win best actress in a supporting role.
This would not be a 2021 Oscar reflection
if I did not mention the star of the night, Samantha Fazio ,
“Nomadland.” I knew after the moment I watched
it that it should win best picture. The storyline and
Adobe Illustrator
(2020)

different.” award of the night. Also, The Academy hates horror

movies, which makes me angry to the core from
being a long-time horror movie fan.
Even though many suspect that it is a corrupt
award show with payoffs and deals being made
behind the scenes, I still feel the need to watch it
every year.
This will be the first year where I have seen most
The Oscar films that are nominated for best picture,
and I am pretty proud of myself for that. Most of the
time I only bother with the movies that seem like
they interest me, or I decide to watch them after the
award show. I managed to sit through eight films
that made me feel empowered, emotional, happy
and also bored as hell. In my opinion, this year had
Photo Credits: the strongest group of movies, and it could have
Viewing the Oscars gone to anyone.
by Jaina Gedeon
The 2021 Oscars felt completely different. The
The 1959 Academy Award for
world has spent an entire year watching movies
Best Supporting Actress. Went
to Shelley Winters for The Diary from home and watching movies get pushed back
of Anne Frank. indefinitely (I’m looking at you “Black Widow”). We
With movies being such a pivotal part of growing
up, one of my favorite memories as a kid was sitting
around the TV with my parents every year and
watching different actresses flaunt their million-
dollar dresses, awkward and cringey hosts and
horrible PR stunts left and right. Even with all the
cringe and horrible jokes, I still love every single
moment of it.
It was moments during The Oscars where I felt
the closest to my family. Since my mom worked a
retail schedule and my dad worked early mornings,
The Oscars was one thing we always made a point
to watch together, and those are the childhood
memories that I keep the closest to me. It is these
moments that I will cherish the most for years to
come.
Enough with my sappy childhood memories. The
2021 Oscar award show was the best one that I had
seen in a while, content wise. Unlike years before,
this year’s award show was precise and right to the
point. All the dumb sketches with actors and other
themes were touching, the actors blew me away, and
I felt it crawl into my heart and soul. “Nomadland” This illustration were
created as part of a series of
ended up taking home achievement in directing,
15 total illustrations, called
actress in a leading role, and best picture. “Pandemic Diaries: An
Chloé Zhao is record breaking with these wins Exploration of Illustration
as only the second woman to win achievement Styles,”  during Fall 2020
in directing and is the first Asian woman to win for a project for Foundation
Forum. The series shows
best directing. It is about time that woman, and
a portrait of myself doing
specifically woman of color, are being recognized a different quarantine/
for their achievement in filmmaking. The film world pandemic related activity
has been dominated by men for way too long and in each illustration, with
it is about time that women and POC are being each piece being inspired
by the illustration style
represented for their contribution.
of a different Instagram
This year there was more diversity with nominees Illustrator. This project
and winners compared to earlier years where it was explores illustration styles
only white men winning awards. Even though there as a form of an artist’s
has been some change, the fight continues to make identity, as well as is an
experiment into how
movies and their awards more diverse.
my illustration style is
The idea that in the 93-year history of the Oscars
influenced by the styles
only seven nominees for best director have been of the artists I follow on
women, only two have been winners, and only one Instagram.

38 Spring 2021 The Buchtelite 39


Lynn Drive-In Movies is one of many drive-ins that is allowing a safe movie experience
for families during COVID-19.
Words and Photos by Jaina Gedeon
“C ome as you are in the family car,” can be
heard when pulling into Ohio’s oldest drive-in
movie theater, Lynn Drive-In Movies. Lynn Drive-
In has been a staple business in Strasburg, Ohio for
nearly 75 years. It is the oldest drive-in in Ohio and
the second oldest in the world. During its 75 years,
it has seen many crazy things happen, but nothing
could compare to the 74th season when COVID-19
hit.
“Since we were classified as a movie theater, we
were immediately shut down before we even had
our opening weekend,” says the owner of Lynn
Drive-In Movies, Rich Reding. “We eventually got
an exemption by contacting our local government
representative, but we still had to wait until May 15
to open when we usually open around the beginning
of April.”
Even when things were looking bright with an
eventual opening, Lynn Drive-In Movies was faced
with structural damage when a huge windstorm
blew in on April 7. Part of the second outdoor movie
screen completely came down and needed to be fixed
as soon as possible. This was especially hard on the
business since no income had been coming in due to
the delay.
With the help of other drive-in owners and staff,
40 Spring 2021
Drive-Ins Offered A
Safe Haven During
COVID-19
the second screen was able to be finished and
painted by the second week of the 74th season.
It was important once the drive-in opened again
that protocols were put in place to ensure a healthy
and safe movie experience for every customer.
The Lynn operates at a limited capacity, masks are
required when ordering concession stand items and
going to the bathroom, the play area and arcade
machines are closed off and there is at least a 20-
foot distance between each car that is parked in the
field.
With all the safety protocols put in place, Lynn
Drive-In offers an escape from being stuck at home
for new and old customers alike.
“I have been coming to the Lynn for nearly 25
years now,” says longtime customer, Rhonda Steiner,
“I trust coming here more than I would going to a
regular indoor theater at this time.”
Every night the Lynn offers two separate
double features on their movie screens that can
accommodate any type of movie viewer.
When it first opened in 2020, many new movies
were not available to be shown due to movie
companies pushing back the releases. During this
time Lynn Drive-In Movies had to rely on showing
classic movies. This included hits such as “The
Goonies,” “Smokey and the Bandit,” “The Rocky
Horror Picture Show,” and many other favorites.
These movies were a massive hit with patrons and
Top Left:
The marquee on opening
weekend in early April of 2021
Bottom Right:
Audio for the movie is heard
through a local FM radio signal
that can be accessed in the
customer’s car.
families, and they continued to show classic movies
throughout the rest of the season.
One of the biggest hits of the 2020 season was
“Hocus Pocus” and “Beetlejuice” in October.
Around this time of the year customer attendance
usually drops due to cold weather and school
obligations, but with these two movies, Lynn
Drive-In and Movies would be sold out for the first
time all season. People wanted to experience their
old favorites movies on the big screen while also
introducing them to their children. This hit made
up for the lost time they had experienced at the
beginning of the season.
Employees of the Lynn worked hard all season
long to ensure the best and safest movie experience
for the customers. At the same time, it was very
important to owner Rich Reding to keep customers
safe, but also the employees that work there.
“I have been working at the Lynn Drive-In for five
years and it has been the best job I ever had,” says
concession stand worker, Sam Carroll. “I have never
once felt unsafe working here during COVID. Our
boss Rich always puts his employees first which is
not something many businesses do.”
The 75th season kicked off on April 9 with new
releases, “Godzilla Vs. King Kong,” “Wonder Woman
1984,” “Tom and Jerry” and “The Croods 2.” With
the amount of success from classic movies from
the previous year, Lynn Drive-In Movies plans on
showing a mixture of both news releases and classic
films throughout the season. Some of the classics
that might be played include, “Scott Pilgrim Vs. The
World,” “Caddyshack” and the original 1996 “Space
Jam.”
Lynn Drive-In Movies offers an experience that
you simply cannot get at an indoor movie theater.
They encourage families to come early, relax, maybe
play a game or two, and truly enjoy the drive-in
experience. With having digital projectors for both
of their screens, the image quality is just as good as
going to a traditional theater.
The drive-In will continue to follow all CDC
guidelines to provide families a safe and enjoyable
movie experience through these uncertain times.
Lynn Drive-In Movies is located at 9735 State
Route 250 NW Strasburg, OH 44680. It is open
Friday through Sunday until May 23. After May 28,
the drive-in will be open 7 days a week during the
summer months and back to weekends only from
August 22 until the end of the season.
‘Filter Off’ Offers New
Online Dating Method
During COVID-19
By Mckenzie Uhrig, Arts and Entertainment Editor
W
hether you are living in the dorms or commuting to campus, meeting
someone new during the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t easy.
During a time where one’s ability to go out is limited, meeting people and
dating has made a bigger move into an online format. Since then, there has been
an increased need for an authentic virtual dating experience.
One application is working toward just that by matching people based on their
personalities, rather than based a dating profile: Filter Off.
Filter Off offers curated speed dates arranged by a matchmaker on the app,
where users create a profile complete with their preferences and are then
matched to potential suitors for 3-minute video dates. After the dates, users
decide whether to match or pass on the suitor.
“With Filter Off, given its video, it’s a step above text messaging or speaking
over the phone. The most authentic experience you can get without meeting in
person,” Zach Schleien, co-founder of Filter Off, said.
Signing up is simple: users write a short bio, add their favorite pictures and list
up to three fun facts about themselves. Once the profile is complete, users can
give the matchmaker their preferences for dates, based on a variety of questions.
The matchmaker then finds a few matches that meet these preferences and,
once matched, the suitor’s profile can be viewed and users can decide whether
they want to go on the virtual date with them or not. Users only have five days to
decide or the match expires.
If both users decide they are interested and want to go on the date, then they
can message each other to schedule a time for the virtual date. After the date
there is an option to decide whether to give each other a thumbs up or thumbs
down, and if both users like each other, they can continue using the app to chat.
The app has another unique feature that allows users to join speed dating
events, some of which are location based or based on your interests. Various
organizations also host events, including non-profits and religious groups. The
app allows you to subscribe to your favorite events, so you never miss them.
Filter Off is available for free on the App Store or Google Play and currently,
no subscription or premium is needed.
The Buchtelite 41
 How UA Opera Operates During COVID-19

Ad
By: Isabella Anderson, Correspondent   forward and still have the students learn their music to provide them the
musicianship skills they were to gain throughout the semester. Each singer

I n the fall semester of 2019, The University of

Akron Opera Lyric Theatre presented Rodgers
and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” showcasing the
vocal, instrumental and theatrical talents of many
students.
Hands were on deck throughout Guzzetta Hall
as the production was fully staged with sets and
costumes provided by UA’s School of Dance, Theatre
and Arts Administration, directed by Dr. Frank
Ward, and instrumental performances by a chamber
orchestra conducted by the director of Choral
Studies, Dr. Marie Bucoy-Calavan.
The excitement, long nights and hard work all
went to good use as the musical made Guzzetta
Recital Hall a full house all three nights of the
production.  Singers are given their music and a recording from accompanist Julie Lehman,
Now picture that next semester when COVID-19
hits, and performers as well as everyone else, is sent
off-campus.
Opera Lyric Theatre is a performance-based course
that is intended to provide students an opportunity
to practice their vocal skills and learnings and apply
them through songs and production.  perform complete virtual operas.
“It was very challenging to go from the excitement
of that first semester into the second,” said Director
of Opera Lyric Theatre Dr. Frank Ward.
“COVID hit and the big question that everyone is
asking- in any field is “What are we going to do?” But
this [opera]? On-screen? How?”  Belshaw’s “The Worst One” and Gian-Carlo Menotti’s “The Telephone.”
The original plan for the opera course that spring
was to have a scenes program where students
would perform scenes from different operas such as
Leonard Bernstein’s “Candide,” Mozart’s “The Magic
Flute,” and various arias.
Due to campus closing, Ward chose to move
42 Spring 2021
learned their parts and was coached virtually on their vocal and character
performance.
“For me, Opera has always been about the growth of a student. Everyone grows
differently and everyone has something to learn,” said Ward.
Ward saw summer 2020 as an opportunity to learn. 
He spent his time watching online presentations, workshops, performances,
and talking to colleagues to try and build a foundation for an online platform.
Coming back in Fall 2020, Ward wanted to keep his students motivated in a
way they would have something to look forward to. Thus, opera students would
have the opportunity to record for The Children’s Concert Society.
Students used Zoom for their coaching and rehearsals to prepare what would
be finalized as a 30-minute video of each opera student describing their song, its
meaning, and background, to then perform.
Opera Lyric Theatre has been strictly remote since the original shutdown of
campus.
where she records both several comfortable speeds for practice and then a set
performance tempo.
For some recordings that are on campus, Ward explains students are filming at
different times, and there have never been two singers in the same room; there is
even a percussionist for the ensemble he has never met face to face.
The opera course has taken their time in producing videos, where now they can
Performing a complete virtual opera involves recording the students singing,
their instrumental music and their sets that can be visioned from Guzzetta or the
comfort of their own home. These recordings are edited together as the audio
can be layered to make the singers sound as if they were together.
The performance-based class is preparing for two short operas: Gary
Singers work towards growth, independence, efficiency and safety; lessons
everyone has taken steps to learn since the pandemic. 
Opera Lyric Theatre will be continuing its musical journey as the class is
available next fall.
It is unsure of when Guzzetta Hall will be able to be a full house for our UA
singers, but until then, they will continue to grow as musicians in any way that
keeps them motivated and safe.
The Buchtelite 43
 CLINICALS during
COVID
Nursing majors ready for their clinicals went from students
to frontline pandemic workers in a heartbeat.
By Nicholas Welch, Guest Contributor
N
ursing clinicals are notoriously challenging. In an average clinical day,
students administer medication to patients, perform head-to-toe patient
assessments, answer call lights and much more.
It is a busy, hands-on opportunity to practice their future career.
Imagine preparing over the course of several undergraduate semesters for
clinicals. Now, imagine transitioning from student to frontline medical hero the
day you heard COVID-19 had arrived in Ohio.
Erica Jensen doesn’t have to imagine. As a second-year nursing student at
the University of Akron, she has yet to be part of a clinical rotation without the
pandemic going on.
“Having to wear goggles, masks, face shields and sanitizing everywhere; it
makes me feel safe to work in a hospital, something I was scared of when I first
started,” Jensen said.
The School of Nursing has created guidelines for the students and faculty
to help lower the spread of the virus during the time at clinicals and in the
classroom.
In addition to the personal protective equipment (PPE) and sanitization
procedures, the school also has strict guidelines for COVID exposure.
According to their guidelines for COVID-19 (although it depends on the
clinical agencies, as some have stricter guidelines) all students who encounter a
positive COVID patient during clinicals most complete a COVID reporting form,
must get tested, and must test negative before returning to clinicals.
Jensen explained that due to the precautions the school is taking and due to
her not being on or near a COVID floor she feels safe.
Enhancing that safety, some students involved in clinicals at The University of
Akron this semester have been able to get vaccinated by their agency.
Lisa Foster, a clinical instructor and professor at the school of nursing, said
depending on the clinical agency some offered the students the COVID vaccine.
44 Spring 2021
Summa, where Foster teaches, allowed some of the
students to receive the vaccine for a limited period of
time.
“I jumped on the opportunity as did some
students,” Foster said, “however, after a few weeks,
the state of Ohio stopped Summa from giving the
vaccine to faculty and students because of the state
mandate to vaccinate older adults in the state first.”
The attempt to give vaccines to front line workers
allowed some of the nursing students to receive the
COVID vaccine months before it was opened to the
general public.
Foster has been a clinical instructor at The
University of Akron for four years, and as never seen
anything like the COVID-19 pandemic, or the way
that it changed the way that students learn in the
classroom and at clinicals.
“Last spring, I was teaching Nursing of
Communities, halfway through the semester, all
clinical agencies where we had nursing students
stopped allowing nursing students to do clinical
including the Akron Public Schools (they went
online), Crossroads Hospice, Akron Metropolitan
Housing Authority (AMHA), OPEN M, United
Disability Services, and Summa Rehab,” she said.
“We had to change to all virtual simulations for
clinical hours,” Foster said.
The average student going into their first rotation
of clinicals is nervous about attending them, and
adding a worldwide pandemic has only increased
that nervousness.
“Come prepared,” Jensen advised future students.
“If you don’t have what you need it could make your
day harder…”
She also shared advice for one of the most nerve
wracking parts of clinicals – answering call lights.
“Don’t be scared to answer call lights, you might
be nervous at first but it gets easier and if you are
unsure of what to do… there are plenty of people that
you can ask for help from,” Jensen said.
Foster wants incoming students to know that it is
okay to be nervous, especially during the pandemic.
Her advice is similar to Jensen’s.
Get out of your comfort zone, she encouraged. “It
is the only way we grow and do the things that we
want to do to reach our full potential,” Foster said.
Foster and Jensen both stressed that the
COVID-19 guidelines in place help protect the
students, instructors and patients.
By Jaina Gedeon, Film Critic
I
have never been so excited to get a shot.
As a lifelong asthmatic, I went into a hard
lockdown when COVID-19 emerged, only leaving
my apartments for essentials, seeing almost no
one, and wearing a mask in public at all times,
not only to protect myself, but to protect others as
well.
I was extremely privileged to be able to stay at
home and continue to get paid for my work. Many
Americans did not have this privilege, like both of
my parents. My dad is garbage truck driver, and
my mother is a supervisor at a grocery store. Like
many, they did not have the option to stay home
and had to be surrounded by the public since the
beginning of all of this.
I’m proud to be the child of two frontline heroes,
but the idea that one of them could come down
with COVID terrified me.
I had convinced myself that all of this would be
over by the Summer of 2020 and life would get
back to normal. Of course, none of that happened
and the world had to wait on vaccines.
I would constantly check the news about
vaccination updates and possible rollouts hoping
for a holiday season with my extended family that I
had not seen since the previous Christmas. I would
not get those holidays like I wanted, but after
months of waiting, it was announced that vaccine
rollouts would start for health care workers and
Photos: Buchtelite reporters
Stephanie Fairchild, Summer Torok
and Jaina Gedeon show off their
vaccine selfies.
VACCINES BRING
HOPE
eventually other critical groups just before the New
Year.
I was in one of the earlier groups to be eligible to
receive the vaccine because of my severe asthma,
and I jumped on it as soon as I could. I even went
out of my way to make an appointment 45 minutes
away just to ensure that I would have a secure spot
to receive the vaccine.
On March 18, 2021, I received the Moderna
vaccine. The relief began to set in.
I did suffer some nasty side effects from both the
first and second dose four weeks later. I had a really
bad migraine, I was extremely tired, I had pains
all throughout my body, and I felt like complete
garbage.
Even with all these side effects, nothing could
compare to actually getting the virus itself and I am
so grateful for every day that I am protected.
There is finally a light at the end of the tunnel with
the rollout of vaccines. I can see a future where I
am able to hug my best friend Lily, have in-person
semesters for my last year of college, hang out with
my friends from high school that I have not seen in
over a year, and be able to go out and enjoy my early
twenties.
Unlike the 2020 summer, things are
looking a lot brighter, and I am excited
to eventually see the world once again.
Help make my dreams come true –
please get vaccinated.
The Buchtelite 45
 Alyssa Alexsonshk,
What We Lost & What We Gained
by The Buchtelite Staff
Managing Editor
COVID-19 sparked
much change in my
life, and I feel my
losses and gains were
representative of roller
coaster.
One constant that
I both continually lost and gained was my
motivation. Online classes take a lot of self
discipline and can grow boring quickly if not
formatted in a way to encourage leaning and
engagement. There were times I just wanted
to give up on school because I no longer had
motivation or a purpose to keep pursuing school,
but personal I don’t like being a quitter no
matter how much I want to. I also lost a large
portion of my social life that even now has been
hard to recover.
Eventually, I adapted to the new way of virtual
learning creating a whole new set of strategies to
help me learn and understand again and gained
back my motivation as-well as officially declaring
my majors which provided more clarity for me.
Most of all I believe I gained a lesson from
COVID-19 and that is in the wake of great
obstacles you have two choices. You can give up
and let the obstacles overcome you or you can
choose to have grit and know your journey won’t
be easy and you may have some failures along
the way. In the end you achieve your overall goal
and that’s all that really matters the rest is just
part of what you learn through your journey.
Stephanie
Fairchild, Social
Media Editor
I have lost the
illusion of permanence,
which I once clung to
with a white-knuckled
grip. Yet I gained
something that already
lived within me; a bright light of resilience,
a durability I had not yet met. I may not be
immune to isolation, but I have learned to enjoy
my own company.
46 Spring 2021
Ashleigh
Kanengeiser, Copy
Editor
Most of the losses I
experienced as a result
of the pandemic could
be twisted into gains. I
lost a job that took me
for granted for years,
and I didn’t realize how it had diminished the
way I viewed myself. I gained the perspective
that I’m worth more than society has led me to
believe; my self-worth can only be determined by
myself, and I know now that I am more than just
another throwaway essential employee.
Jaina Gedeon, Film
Critic
Like many I felt like
I lost out on a lot of
things with COVID. I
had to start my new
double major on a
completely online
environment, I did not
get to meet my cousin until he was nine months
old, and I missed out on precious moments with
friends that I only get to see on breaks.
Even though there were many hard losses, I
gained the most valuable piece of me. I gained
the ability to love my true self. I had spent many
years constantly bringing myself down and
feeling like I was an imposter even though on
paper I looked like an overachieving person. I
was in a major that I hated, felt like an outsider,
and I was ultimately lost. I started turning to
movie reviews as a creative outlet and I started to
feel like I was not an imposter anymore. Months
ZTV 2020 Election Night Special - Courtesy ZTV
later I am feeling the best emotionally and the no childcare and three small children, I may have lost my sanity. I also the
happiest I have ever been. I am in a double major energy and availability to really spend time with my kids, even though we
that I love, I am writing pieces that make me were physically together more. Luckily, technology let my students come
happy, and I see a really bright future ahead of into my home, so I was able to keep mentoring and teaching. I gained some
me. I can truly look at myself and say that I am special and unique memories with my children, but mostly I gained a keen
proud of all the things that I am doing. appreciation for the beauty of our daily lives, the time we spend with family
and just being together.
Summer Torok,
Correspondent Lekesha Parkman, Editor-in-Chief
I lost the opportunity My main take way from the year that shall
to have in-person remain nameless is: self care is not self
classes for three indulgence. I’m a workaholic but during
semesters of my quarantine, I was forced to be still. To my
college experience. surprise, I didn’t hate it.
The change to online It feels good to take a break and find time
learning came with for myself. I lost time at work but I began to
many difficulties, but focus more on what’s important to me, which
one thing it did was give me the opportunity is spending time with the ones I love and doing
to travel more. With being able to take classes what matters to me.
anywhere, I was able to go on fun vacations while
still staying on top of classes, and being cautious Mckenzie Uhrig, Arts & Entertainment Editor
of COVID-19 of course. During the pandemic I gained a new perspective on human interaction. I
learned that relationships may take a lot of work but they are essential in
Isabella Anderson, having a healthy mental state.
Correspondent
I have always had
a strong love for my
friends and family, but
I would say I gained
a new level of love
for them. As a social
person, I lost that
contact of making a group of people laugh or
getting to see my family on holidays. I gained two
lovely twin nephews who make my heart grow
making me an aunt of three boys. And not to get
deep but I lost a little bit of faith in humanity
seeing how much hate has been spreading since
the pandemic began. From people who don’t
believe in COVID to consistent racism in the
news... it has not been a fun time.
Julie Cajigas,
Advisor
I lost some rites
of passage like
kindergarten
graduation and
milestone birthdays.
Buchtel dons a mask and students move out of their dormitories, by Alyssa Alexsonshk.
Teaching full time with
The Buchtelite 47
48 Spring 2021