MACON, Ga. — As students across the country were preparing to head back to class in the fall of 2020, COVID-19 had other plans. For members of the class of 2024, their first year of college was unlike any other. They took classes virtually, wore masks and practiced social distancing. But despite these challenges, they also found ways to connect with each other and their studies. One of the ways they did this was through the arts. Many students in the class of 2024 are talented artists, and they found that art was a way to express themselves and connect with others. .
For some students, art was a way to cope with the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic. For others, it was a way to find joy and beauty in a difficult time. And for others, it was simply a way to pass the time. .
No matter what their reasons, these students found that art was a powerful tool that helped them get through a challenging year. And as they prepare to graduate, they are grateful for the role that art has played in their lives. .
Here are some of their stories: .
* **Name:** Sarah Smith .
* **Major:** Studio Art .
* **Hometown:** Macon, Ga. .
Sarah Smith has always loved art. As a child, she would spend hours drawing and painting. When she came to Mercer, she knew that she wanted to major in studio art. .
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