Saint Xavier University has officially become a mask optional campus. The move comes after restrictions across the country have begun to ease, citing the decline in Covid cases.
The move seems to be favorable amongst students and faculty alike as many make the transition to going maskless.
Various members of the Xavierite Editorial Board have offered their opinions regarding the new school guidelines.
One member voiced their initial discomfort at the change due to the masks being commonplace for so long.
“At first I was extremely skeptical about the mandate being lifted in general. I have been extremely cautious during the pandemic, so knowing that masks wouldn’t be required not only in public but on campus after wearing them for so long honestly freaked me out.”
Despite this initial skepticism, this board member soon made the transition to going maskless.
“Considering the sacrifices and contributions I made throughout the duration of this pandemic, I thought it was finally okay for me to stop wearing my mask. I am comfortable with the decision I made because I know I did my part when it was most needed. Yes, I do have my worries every now and then about catching the virus again, but I always remain cautious.”
The masks may no longer be mandated; however, the university is asking that students keep up with other safety precautions such as washing your hands and social distancing.
“From my observations on campus I don’t think people even followed the safety procedures when the masks were mandated. I would always see students wearing their masks beneath their noses, or wouldn’t even have it on at all.”
Masks have always been a point of contention, and many students are ready to get back to a somewhat normal ground — which can make some nervous during their time on campus.
“You can never be too careful. I like having my own personal space and being home away from the general public but everyone is eager to find their sense of normalcy and socialize again.”
Safety procedures are good in theory — but are they truly able to be put into effect? After all, college students can’t be made to wash their hands nor to keep a safe distance.
As one board member explains, “If masks weren’t even being worn properly, I doubt these students were even following the precautions when the mandate was active. I just hope everyone is still following the procedures since the masks are now off
While the campus at this point is mask optional, the time may come where the tides turn and SXU’s members are asked to put their masks back on.
However, now that those on campus have been given a reprieve from their masks — would they so freely mask up once again?
“They’re not going to take it well because they’re tired of these masking regulations and of social distancing.”
A board member, who recently made the move to go maskless, reflects on the mixed emotions that going back to a mask mandate would bring.
“Everyone finally feels like we’ve come back to normalcy, so it would be a blow at first, but the virus is in our hands at the end of the day.”
At the end of the day, the pandemic is not over and the tides can change at any moment. The best we can do is follow guidelines and continue to work together to ensure the safety of the community.
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