COVID-19 had a huge impact on our lives over the last several months, and as much as we hoped the day would never come, we knew we had to be prepared for a second wave.

So, what does this second wave mean for you?

Modified stage two restrictions

Due to the recent spike in cases within certain areas of Ontario, Premier Doug Ford announced that Ottawa, Toronto and Peel Region will be reverting back to a modified version of stage two for a minimum of 28 days. These restrictions that took effect at 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 10 include no indoor dining, closure of gyms, cinemas, casinos, performing arts and racing venues. Further restrictions include limiting indoor gatherings to 10 people and outdoor gatherings to 25 and prohibiting team sports, as well as any personal care services where masks cannot always be worn.

We know its hard, but there are ways to make things easier. If you’re missing the use of gyms, check out some free online fitness classes. If you don’t feel like cooking or are itching for the restaurant experience, grab a container of soup from the Soupbar! Not convinced soup can fill your restaurant cravings? Check out these five reasons why soup should be your go-to-meal this fall.

More Zoom classes

Following the closure of schools back in March, Humber college and the University of Guelph-Humber pivoted their classes to an online format and introduced a hybrid approach come the start of fall, with the majority of classes remaining online.

Both Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber have made the announcement to continue this hybrid approach for the winter semester, limiting on-campus classes only to where it is necessary and can be done safely.

This means a lot more Zoom classes for most of us. And as much as you probably miss sitting next to your friends, Zoom classes definitely have their benefits. You can save money and time on commuting; you can sleep in till the very last minute before class starts; you can attend class from the comforts of your bed and you can continue to rock your PJ bottoms to class. And let’s not forget, you no longer have to leave your furry friend behind!

Virtual events

As students, you may also be thinking what this second wave means in terms of events. We know you’re used to experiencing many amazing on-campus events, but we want you to know we’re doing our very best to make sure this doesn’t have to change.

We have so many more virtual events planned for you – like Real Talks with Tyler Oakley and Justin Kan – so you can still have all the experiences you deserve as a student. There are endless possibilities with an online world, so make sure you stay tuned!

Online Interviews

Being in the second wave of COVID-19 also means preparing for online interviews. Many of us will likely be seeking out some type of employment, whether that be a part-time job, an internship or a post-graduate opportunity.

This might be a little different than what you’re used to, but don’t worry, our tips on how to ace an online interview will ensure you crush them.

There are still so many job postings being put up daily, so don’t miss out just because the process has moved to a virtual format.

And remember to always stay safe

It is important to do all you can to keep you, your loved ones and the general public safe. Moving a lot of things to the online world, such as school, events and work, has reduced your risk of exposure by limiting how many face-to-face interactions you have on a daily basis; however, there is always more you can do to stay safe.

First, make sure when you head out the door you grab your mask and your hand sanitizer. Also, remember to social distance when around others and wash your hands frequently. With the new regulations in place, continue to limit your social gatherings to those within your social bubble and double check the government’s restrictions on group sizes. It will help keep you and your wallet safe!

Also, make sure to keep up-to-date with COVID-19 reporting on campus.

Still feeling a little down about not returning to campus? Check out these 9 upsides to having a remote semester.

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