Do your part Javelinas

This is an incredible, and frightening, time in which we are living.

As the number of people who have fallen victim and succumbed to COVID-19 contin- ues to rise, it is up to us to ensure there is not an outbreak on the Texas A&M Universi- ty-Kingsville campus.

College is a time to express yourself, to try new things, challenge norms, make new friends and discover who you are. Under normal circumstances, we would be joining clubs, meeting in all classes face-to-face, go- ing on dates, experiencing our first Javelina football game, cheering on the marching band and so much more.

COVID-19 has stolen that from the class of 2024 and your fellow Javelinas. But do not despair. Your time will come.Only if we are mature and smart with our actions today can we ensure we have a normal tomorrow.

As universities across the country contin- ue to close because of COVID-19 outbreaks, let’s show the state, nation and world the te- nacity of a Javelina.

Let’s not become another story of a univer- sity that had to shutter and go solely online. Let’s prove what it means to be Javelina Na- tion – united, strong, intelligent, caring. Now is the time to step outside our comfort zone and connect with others in different ways.

Taking advantage of the ability to virtu- ally connect with others will help create a long-lasting college experience. We need to check in on one another. This is the time to reflect and be appreciative of the small things in life before they are gone. Yes, we all want to attend events normally or go to a party; we all want normalcy. But, let’s be patient.

The time will come for a traditional col- lege experience. But now is the time to be safe. Wear your mask, follow guidelines on campus and in the dorms, stay six feet apart and if you feel sick, quarantine and schedule a test. The only way we can beat this is by working together. Together we are Javelina Nation. Together we are Strong. Together we can beat COVID-19 at TAMUK.