How to Maintain a Social Life While Staying Safe and Not Catching COVID
By: Sydney Fiorentino ‘24
School is back in person and many of us want to go out and party. We’ve been in quarantine for a year where we had no in-person social gatherings and all we wanted to do was spend time with friends. Now that everything is opened again, everyone wants to just have fun! But, there’s a catch to going out…not catching COVID or the delta variant.
I have found it hard to maintain my social life while also being COVID-conscious to some degree. I, nor do I believe others, want to expose their friends and family to the virus and then have to quarantine for weeks. Sometimes I get invited to a party or big gathering inside, and I face the temptation of going, but I’m reminded there is still a pandemic going on. I end up not going, but the fear of missing out arises and I still want to be social. I want to meet new people, but also in a way that is safe. So after a few weeks of figuring out how to do just that, here are my suggestions to hopefully decrease your chances of catching COVID while also being able to meet new people!
Meet People Outside
Go on a picnic, an outdoor event, hiking, or the beach. There are a bunch of different outdoor activities! Even grabbing dinner outside is another alternative. You can socialize in so many different ways that don’t require being indoors.
Gather in a Small Group, Individually or Create a Bubble
If you are not comfortable in a crowd, go spend time with a small group of friends or go out one-on-one with someone. Smaller groups and individual time with people can help strengthen your connections as well as create a bubble. You and your friends see around the same amount of people or know who you have seen, so you can minimize the chances of being exposed to the virus.
Get Tested
USC requires you to get tested at least once a week for Trojan Check. If you see more people than normal or are extra worried that you’ve been exposed, go get a quick test to ensure you’re healthy.
Take Accountability
If you are not feeling well, tell your friends and family before you see them. If you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive, let others know and get a test. Be cautious about how you’re feeling and be aware of others. If you are inside, realize who is around you and keep your mask on when indoors.
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