This fall is a strange semester indeed. 

Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, a majority of students here at the University are taking classes online. No one can sit down in a Campustown restaurant or bowl at the Illini Union. Football season is starting later than normal.

Who is taking the biggest hit during all of this? Some might say freshman or transfer students because this is their first time on campus and they cannot do anything. Sure, they might be missing out on a semester of a normal college experience, but what about the professors and other staff members on campus? If you get some free time soon, and you’ll probably have plenty, check up any professors and staff you know and see how they’re doing. They are trying to survive everything just like us.

Professors and staff have it all just as bad, if not worse. Think about it. They all have to control Zoom lectures, make videos of themselves teaching the material and probably stuff in a room all day just like everyone else. Have you ever thought about what they might feel regarding this semester?

Though many students don’t normally become friends with their professors, or any adult on campus for that matter, there are plenty of others that do. Make a list of all of your professors that you’ve enjoyed over the years and send them an email. Ask them how they’re doing, how classes are going, etc.

If this is your first semester on campus, reach out to your professors now and ask how they’re doing. It might feel intimidating at first, but doing so will make you feel so much better. Who knows, you might even put a smile on their face.

But don’t stop at professors though. Check up on any staff members you know too like those who work at your dorm, an academic counselor or even a TA. See how they’re doing and maybe check out their take on everything happening this semester. How are their lives different? What do they think about it?

At the end of the day, no one is alone in this situation. It constantly makes me think of “High School Musical’s” hit song “We’re All in This Together.” That may sound cheesy but when you think about it, it’s true. Everyone is on the same boat, including professors and staff.

Next time you think about performing an act of kindness or just think about others in general, give any professor or other staff member your time for a little bit. Ask about them and see how they’re doing. You might just make their day.

Noah is a junior in the College of Media.

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