Editorial: My advice to the Class of 2020- They don’t need any of it

Usually during this time of year, I provide an editorial to the graduating Class of 2020 with a little bit of my personal advice. This year, they don’t need any of it.

Why? Because they are already prepared.

Unlike any other graduating class before them, the Class of 2020 has experienced more within the last 11 weeks than many graduating classes in their 13 years of education.

What started off as a typical year of instruction quickly transitioned into distance learning because of COVID-19. With may students already acquainted with technology, this offered a glimpse on how the rest of society had to catch up with the newer generation in adaptation.

Next came the social isolation from each other. This was probably the most painful realization the Class of 2020 had to endure. Spending time away from friends, not able to compete in athletics, activities, or group functions were just the first of many stones cast into the sea of uncertainty. But yet, the senior class coped with it by having online parties and group chats to keep their tensions at ease.

Continuing, more restrictions came in the form of a “stay-at-home” order issued by Governor Ralph Northam. This meant that unless you were essential personnel, you were to remain on your own property. Students were confined to areas and couldn’t leave unless they were working or exercising. However, the Class of 2020 used this as a way to learn how to cope with boundaries and capitalize on those opportunities.

Next came the protests that resulted in the passing of George Floyd. The Class of 2020 learned probably their most powerful lesson in life over the past couple of weeks. Minorities have been oppressed in the country, especially the African-Americans. However, the protests sparked younger generations of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, and more to step out and shout out their voices. It didn’t matter the age, the Class of 2020 probably had more of an impact with what they say as support flourished. The lessons learned over the weeks are to be interpreted individually but should provide insight for the Class of 2020 to change the world and make it more positive.

Finally, this week showed that the Class of 2020 will always be loved and supported. Despite circumstances and conditions, your family, friends, and community will always love you and be there to support you. Your job is to go out and spread that love and positivity to others to make this world a better place.

When you now have “20-20” vision, the Class of 2020 should use this as a motto: “We’ve seen a lot of the past within the last three months. We need to do what’s right to make sure we see a better and brighter future for us all.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2020. This is your moment to shine.