Courtesy of USF
Pictured above: Senior business management major, Sean Schrader, shares his experience of getting COVID-19.
By Sean Schrader
Recently, I joined the millions of Americans who have tested positive for COVID-19.
I was initially surprised with my test result as I’ve tried my best to stay safe throughout the pandemic by getting vaccinated, wearing a mask and social distancing when necessary.
However, my experience with COVID-19 has helped me to better understand what so many people have endured, as well as think about how we can practice normalcy even in the face of a contagious threat.
This semester is my last one at the University of South Florida, where I’ve been fortunate to pursue my bachelor’s degree in business management and serve as a senator in student government.
Unfortunately, like many other students across the world, the pandemic has impacted much of my college experience, making virtual learning and online engagement a major aspect of going to school.
When the opportunity became available to return to “normal” at USF for the fall semester, I was excited for multiple reasons. I would be able to take in-person classes, connect with friends face-to-face and attend student government activities again.
The fall semester was great, and beyond taking the necessary precautions, it felt like the “normal” college experience had returned.
Fast forward to the week before the start of the spring semester, I woke up with a scratchy throat. At first, I thought it was allergies from the drastic weather changes we’ve all experienced lately.
When my symptoms persisted despite taking cold medicine, the dreaded feeling came over me that I might be another positive case of COVID-19, which a rapid test would later confirm to be true.
In accordance with CDC guidelines, and USF protocols, I remained isolated in my home in Clearwater for the required number of days until I was no longer symptomatic.
Unfortunately, that meant missing out on my last first day as an undergraduate student at USF.
Although my personal experience with COVID-19 has been nothing compared to that of the thousands who lost their lives to this virus or have become severely ill, I’m reminded of the threat that still exists when becoming too complacent and eager to return to normalcy.
I’m excited to be fully cleared to come back to USF, where it will be nice to re-engage with friends and campus life.
However, now having gone through this experience, I realize that having the virus is no picnic. The personal toll it can take on an individual is significant, but the steps you must take to ensure you don’t spread it to others through quarantining and contact tracing are hard too.
Personally, I’ve always been a big fan of getting involved in the community and connecting with others. When you have COVID-19, that is not possible, and trying to replicate in-person activities online can be hit or a miss.
As the spring semester at USF and many colleges across the country begins, I share my personal experience with COVID-19 not to scare others, but rather to remind them of the importance of staying vigilant and being cautious when spending time with others.
As we start the new year, I wish that COVID-19 was a thing of the past, and although that’s unfortunately not the case, I truly believe that we can practice “normalcy” if it’s met with common sense.
Great article, Sean! Your experience is similar to that of many students at USF, which makes it very relatable. Your message–that common sense + precautions = normalcy–is a great one.