Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on College Student Academic and Social Lives

The coronavirus has caused major disruptions in the lives of people around the world in 2020. The academic world is no exception. The spread and severity of the virus has resulted in major academic changes in university class availability and content delivery; the use of technology for administrative, faculty and student meetings; how clubs and organizations conduct their affairs; student housing and dining; attendance at athletic, theater and other events; and many other areas. These changes have resulted in a great deal of stress and uncertainty among this demographic group. A 56 question survey was created to measure the perceptions of college students about the impact of COVID-19 on various aspects of their lives, including academic, financial, social, emotional and physical impacts. It was also designed to assess the impact of the pandemic on their attitudes about the future of their studies, careers and personal lives. 823 students completed the anonymous survey during Summer and Fall Semesters of 2020. This paper addresses the impact of the virus on the academic and social lives of college students, including coursework, study habits, communication with other students and faculty members, campus life, social interactions and how the virus has affected their perceptions about their future plans after graduation. It also provides some guidelines on how college teachers and administrators should consider these changes when making decisions that affect them.