University of Florida - Tower / Seminole Yearbook (Gainesville, FL)

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Early March 2020 it became clear that nothing will be the same, but who knew for how long, it began with a two-week quarantine that continued for months. For students, maintaining a social life remained a challenge. With that, nightlife in college has changed tremendously. From wearing masks to a smaller capacity, longer lines, and the fear of catching COVID-19. going was seemingly not ideal. However, amidst the chaos, students still found ways to enjoy the nightlife in Gainesville. In a college community, nightlife is one of the main elements that bring students together. Despite COVID-19, bars and restaurants began reopening once Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, granted approval for full functioning bar capacity in September of 2020. ‘I only started engaging in nightlife after getting out of quarantine since I had immunity. I think the bar's reopening has been fun. I like having a nighttime social life, Jake Pugh, first year undergraduate student, said. 'I think having a thriving nightlife scene makes our school a far more relaxed and fun environment. It helps distract people from the issues plaguing our nation and local communities, he said. With social distancing restrictions implemented into campus lifestyles, for some, leaving their dorms to party seemed like the easiest way to meet new people and have a good time. 'Going out allows students to make new friends and meet people they may never have encountered on a Zoom. Although some see it as a risk, there are a variety of benefits that come with a lively nightlife to the economy, city, and overall student body. Rachael Carr first year undergraduate student, said. While many students overcame COVID-19, that did not mean they were entirely safe from the virus. Students who went home or visited family could not take as much of a chance as those who were staying on campus for the entire fall 2020 semester. 1 would love to go out with everyone, but I am trying to have my own and my family's best interests at heart. I don't think any bars should open in this current climate, but it's not surprising that bars in Florida are open. Brendan Kilgerman. first year undergraduate student, said. Nightlife was important for some of the 2020-2021 academic year students who yearned for social interaction during the pandemic. Face-to-face events had been limited for quite a while and. for many, were a part of gaining the typical full college experience. Even though there were risks of getting COVID-19, students still sought to return to a somewhat normal lifestyle, and going to bars was their break from reality. night life during a pandemic Writing and Photography by Natalie Tajoddino 21 Adult Photographed