“STRONG THREE”

Emma, Gab, and Maya, three high school students in the little town of
Millfield, had to manage their senior year while a virus swept the world. Their
school was shut down due to the COVID-19 virus, so they were sent home to
finish their coursework online. Jake was lonely and alone without his buddies,
while Emma struggled to manage care for her younger siblings while still
attending school. Maya, on the other hand, turned to her artistic endeavors for
comfort and launched a YouTube account to interact with other teenagers.

Emma, Maya, and Gab came to understand how crucial it was to stay in
touch with their loved ones, even if it meant doing it virtually, as the pandemic
dragged on. To stay in touch and support one another during these uncertain
times, they started setting up weekly video conferences with one another and
their larger network of friends. The three companions encountered new
difficulties as the pandemic continued. Nurse Emma's mother was hospitalized
after contracting COVID-19. Gab’s family was having financial difficulties when
Gab’s father lost his job. Maya was concerned for the wellbeing of her
grandparents, who resided in a nursing facility and were unable to accept
visitors.

Despite these challenges, the teens were able to gain important lessons
from the pandemic. They came to understand the value of helping one another
and their community through trying times. Additionally, they learned to respect
their health and to be more appreciative of the little things in life like time spent
with loved ones. Because of their experiences, Emma, Gab, and Maya were able
to emerge from the pandemic stronger, more tenacious, and prepared to take on
any difficulties that could arise.

Gab and his best friend Ken had been inseparable since elementary school. They shared a love for video
games and skateboarding, but now their conversations were dominated by Covid-19. They worried
about their grandparents and the impact the pandemic was having on their community. Gab felt
frustrated that some of his peers didn't take the virus seriously, and he struggled to balance the desire
for socialization with the need to stay safe. Gab and Ken were sitting on a park bench discussing the
ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Gab expressed his frustration with the pandemic, as it had put a pause on
many aspects of his teenage life, such as hanging out with friends and attending social events. Ken
agreed, but also mentioned the importance of following safety guidelines to prevent the spread of the
virus.

As the pandemic raged on, Gab and Ken became even closer. They talked about the future and what life
would look like once the virus was under control. They dreamed of travelling the world and experiencing
new cultures. They also realized how lucky they were to have each other during such a difficult time. As
the conversation continued, Gab realized the impact of the pandemic on his community as a teenager in
Generation Z. He recalled how the pandemic had brought to light the digital divide, with many students
unable to access online classes due to lack of resources. He also expressed concern for the mental
health of his peers, who were struggling with the isolation and uncertainty caused by the pandemic.

In the end, Gab and Ken emerged from the pandemic stronger than ever. They learned to appreciate the
simple things in life, like a walk in the park or a good conversation with a friend. They also became more
aware of the world around them, and were determined to use their voices to make a positive impact on
their community. Despite the challenges, Gab and Ken remained optimistic and committed to staying
safe and supporting their community during this time. They discussed ways to stay connected with
friends and family while social distancing, and brainstormed ideas for helping those in need. As they
parted ways, Gab felt a sense of camaraderie with his best friend and a renewed determination to make
the best of the situation.