Opportunities for engagement range from online fitness classes to recreational clubs
Webex classes and grab-and-go meals have become the new normal at Rollins, but the college and its community have taken many measures to mitigate the adverse effects of COVID-19 on student life.
Initiatives by the Center for Inclusion and Campus Involvement (CICI), student organizations, and Rollins College Athletics have provided students and staff with many safe opportunities to socialize, play sports, and continue to engage with their communities.
Education and Civic Engagement
In light of the attention garnered by the #BlackLivesMatter movement and the topic of racial justice in the nation, CICI has started learning groups for staff and students. These groups aim to educate participants on racial issues in the USA and how to contribute to racial justice initiatives. More information on similar resources can be found on the CICI webpage for racial justice.
In addition, with the presidential election just around the corner, The Democracy Project has been conducting many events to encourage students to vote and become politically aware. The bipartisan organization has also been hosting events like watch parties for the presidential and vice-presidential debates.
For those interested in fostering policy change and social progress on campus, organizations like the Student Government Association (SGA) and the Pinehurst Organization have many opportunities.
Recreational Clubs and Organizations
There are many organizations students can join if they are simply looking for something fun to do. Dungeons and Dragons(D&D) Guild, Board Game club, and the new club esports team are a few of the many recreational organizations that students can become involved with this semester.
The D&D Guild is conducting all of their meetings virtually via their official Discord server, and the brand new esports room at the Alfond Sports Center is equipped with high-tech gaming computers available to all who join the club.
For those who want to learn more, the Rollins College Get Involved page (https://getinvolved.rollins.edu) has more information on all college clubs and organizations.
Exercise and Physical Activities
Many club sports have resumed activities this semester. Club tennis and sports that allow for physical distancing like pickleball and spikeball have begun.
For those uninterested in fast-paced sports and for those would rather just hit the gym, Daryl’s Fitness Center is open to those who make a reservation online. Paddleboards, canoes, and sailboats are available at the Boathouse if a quiet afternoon out on Lake Virginia is more one’s speed. For gym and boathouse equipment reservations, visit the Athletic Facility Reservations page.
There are several group fitness classes being conducted both online and in-person. Students can take part in pilates, barre, yoga, abs and core, and many other group fitness classes.
“More than ever, it’s important for our health and our peace of mind to stay physically active, so at the very least, if you find yourself at your computer all day, go for a walk,” said Dr. Rachel Newcomb, who conducts weekly Zumba classes in person at Mary Jean Plaza and also via Webex. “There are also a lot of good workouts you can find online, from yoga to Zumba.”
Newcomb also commented on the advantages of being able to join via video call: “On the positive side, I think some people are more comfortable working out online and not in person, so I’ve seen some new people join Zumba online.”
For more information on group fitness classes and intramurals, visit the Rollins Rec Sports and Intramurals webpage.
COVID-19 has undoubtedly brought countless restrictions to socializing, sports, and campus life in general. However, the Rollins community has met these challenges with adjustments and the creation of new opportunities for involvement and engagement on campus.
Despite hurdles like the cancellation of many sports and events this semester, there is still something for everyone.
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