Sophomore Mazzy Martinez has not been impressed with the pandemic practices of students and university administration alike. 

As an immunocompromised student fretful of overwhelming medical costs, Martinez opted to take on the fall 2020 semester from home. Prioritizing her health has increased her academic burdens and affected her involvement on campus. 

Martinez has found some solace in quarantine through her deejaying with KJHK; the student radio station has been successful in adapting its DJ staff to a fully remote system.

Martinez has been discontented with the university’s handling of the pandemic, but she has been particularly furious with the actions of her fellow students. Martinez expressed frustration with large off-campus parties taking place in her own neighborhood as the pandemic has dramatically worsened. She attributes the practices of partying college students to their lack of empathy and proximity to those most affected by the virus.

Despite her disappointment, Martinez believes that the trials of the pandemic will make more resilient individuals of the masses, and stronger journalists of her and her peers.