Seniors struggle with Zoom gloom

by Jackson Schroeder ‘21

Catlin Gabel School (CGS) seniors describe their unique struggles with Zoom, between applying to college and missing out on senior perks.

CGS represents just one of the 20,000 schools in 90 countries who’ve switched to Zoom due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“It's really hard to feel like you're actually there in the classroom, instead of just watching class take place,” states senior Michael Putz. This is known as the Ringelmann effect, the tendency for individual members of a group to become increasingly less productive as their separation from the group increases. 

Senior William Johnston claims, “Zoom fatigue is unique to seniors because it compromises our one opportunity to have a relaxing time in high school.” This idea of “seniority” at CGS includes perks like senior pranks, senior skip day, and prom.

Fellow senior Alec Murray said that the college application process is an added stressor. 

“College stuff, like PODS, college visits, and essay workshops are adding to the hours [spent on Zoom], which just in general is not good for mental health,” he said.

Seniors like Lizzy Cook are also struggling with separation from their friends. 

“I miss seeing their faces in person,” she said. “You can only interact with people you have classes with, or happen to be in a breakout room with.” 

Senior Hannah Ellis agrees. “Social life with people who aren’t necessarily your friends is nonexistent.”

Seniors are looking forward to in-person classes, whether that’s at CGS or college.