COVID Restrictions on Baylor University Campus

In August, 447 cases, in September, 249 cases, in October,116 cases, now in November, 63 cases. Baylor has done an incredible job ensuring the health and safety of its students this fall semester. I believe that most students truly do feel safe from COVID-19. However, one area that Baylor is lacking in is giving hope to students that we will ever get back to normal. 

With less cases as of Oct. 28, some students are beginning to wonder when Baylor will begin lifting restrictions. Just as the country has begun to slowly lift restrictions, I believe Baylor should do the same.

 Students are constantly commended for their efforts in stopping the spread of the virus, yet there is no reward for this behavior. While some may see staying in class as a reward, I argue that it’s just not enough. 

I believe there would be lots of benefits to lifting covid restrictions as case numbers go down. If Baylor is reporting fewer cases, more in-person activities and classes should be allowed. 

I am not suggesting that Baylor drop all restrictions and not require masks at all. I simply am making the argument that Baylor should consider lifting restrictions as case numbers go down. 

The morale among students is low. The constant reminders to wear a mask, football games and other events being canceled or postponed, freshmen having to wear a mask from their dorm to the bathroom, all contribute to this oppressive weight that so many students are feeling. 

Talking to freshmen on campus I have heard multiple times that they feel like life is almost meaningless. They have forgotten what it feels like to look forward to something because they are constantly being let down by unmet expectations. 

I believe that this will not only help with mental health issues that have arisen out of the isolating pandemic but also encourage more rule-following. For example, if we knew that as long as case numbers stayed under 100 we could have chapter meetings in person for sororities, students would be much more motivated to be careful. 

According to the Washington Post, there has been a 1000% increase in mental illness since the lockdowns in April. This culture that has been created on the Baylor campus is one of isolation, depression, and constant disappointment. 

It is no longer likely that we will shut down completely, so students have stopped being as careful. Knowing that following the rules will result in more in-person events would motivate students to be mindful of how they act off campus. 

With a .00002 infection fatality ratio, according to the CDC, there seems to be little risk in lifting some restrictions. There have been over 200,000 cases on college campuses, resulting in two deaths. 

According to the CDC, during the 2018-2019 influenza season, there were 2,450 deaths among 18-49-year-olds. These stats are not to make light of any deaths caused by COVID-19 or influenza, they are added only to give added context for my argument. 

Now I understand that some will read my opinion as insensitive to those who are immune-compromised. I can assure you that is not my intention. I truly believe that we need to care for those who are immune-compromised. However, we cannot stop caring about those who are suffering in a different way from the pandemic. 

Though Baylor claims to have moved to a different phase of restrictions, Baylor Student Activities must approve every gathering, which they rarely do. Baylor needs to remain consistent. If Baylor is going to allow hundreds of students to gather on Mclane field, they should allow other outdoor student gatherings. 

I truly believe that Baylor has handled the fall semester well so far. I am just calling on Baylor to consider the benefits of lifting the coronavirus restrictions on Baylor students and student activities. While the consequences are real, I believe the many benefits are clear.