They said that college life is one of the most memorable experiences that an individual might encounter. But what if instead of the supposed to be campus life, you need to spend your college life in the four corners of your home?

In the Philippines, as a preventive move against the fast-spreading coronavirus disease COVID-19, classes in both public and private schools around the country were canceled in March 2020. I was just a sophomore back then. My innocent mind was even happy for the sudden suspension of classes because, during that time, I was feeling stressed with my academics. What’s the harm with a few-day cancellation of classes, right? (I thought that it would only last for a few days! Silly me). I am now in my senior year and guess what? Up to now, we’re still stuck doing online classes.

My first two years in the university as a BS Chemistry student has been a roller coaster ride. One minute, I cannot contain my happiness, the next minute, I am bawling my eyes out for failing my exam. Nevertheless, within these two years, I have met new people, been to places I thought I couldn't reach, and experienced things that I couldn't do before, but then Covid-19 came and attacked the whole world. No one ever expected or imagined that things would turn out this way. Looking back at my first two years in the university, here are the things that I missed during the conduct of face-to-face classes.

Spending Time with My Friends

The thing that I missed the most during face-to-face classes, is the bonding with my friends. College is not as easy as one two three. You will face hardships that will test you, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. You can never survive college alone. For that reason, I am so lucky to have a great circle of friends as my support system. I miss our bonding during lunch, our escapade every time we feel stressed, our karaoke session every end of the semester, and many more. Oh, we also do Monito Monita (Filipino tradition of giving gifts during the Christmas Season).

Real Classroom

I miss the feeling to be inside a real physical classroom. Virtual classrooms can never be compared to the feeling when you’re surrounded by your classmates while listening to your professor teach in front. Communication became a hindrance in this online setup for it limits the teacher-to-student interactions and even the student-to-student interactions. I also miss the sudden adrenaline rush every time I participate in class and during written exams and oral recitations. It was all like a beautiful dream. Today’s online setup is a nightmare. You only see your classmates and professors inside a screen. How lonely is that?

Parties

College is not complete without parties! Our university often has freshmen welcome parties and it is one of the most awaited events every year. I miss dancing and singing my heart out without the thoughts of academic responsibility. If only I knew that it would be the last university party that I am going to experience, then I would’ve enjoyed the moment more.

Our university still conducts parties though, but only virtually. Kudos to our student council for exerting effort for the student’s entertainment amid the pandemic.

Laboratory Experiments

I miss laboratory experiments! I miss wearing my lab gown! As a BS Chemistry student who needs hands-on laboratory experience, it is sad because we didn’t fully mold our laboratory knowledge because of the pandemic. In online classes, instead of doing the actual experiment, we only watch virtual experiments. How can we hone our skills if we can’t use laboratory equipment in person?

Covid-19 took lives, opportunities, and life experiences. I am already in my last year in college. What I only hope for is for the world to return to its normal state. Even if I cannot experience the “normal” college life again, at least the lower batches can.