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Wearing masks was not what the Povolo quintuplets had in mind when they pictured their college experience. But as they navigate a semester like no other, Victoria, Masha, Ashley, Michael and Marcus are making the most of a semester where face coverings are part of everyday life.

“It’s been a smooth ride,” says Victoria.

The masks, along with social distancing, handwashing, ventilation and online self-screenings, have helped to slow the spread of COVID-19 and allow the University to provide students with as much in-person, on-campus instruction and activities as possible under the circumstances.

And in a significant update to its guidance on face coverings, the CDC now says wearing a mask also protects you, not only those around you.

It’s also provided for creative expression as the masks have become an essential fashion accessory on the ��Ʒ���˸������� campus.

As November temperatures reached into the 70s, the freshman Povolo quintuplets walked around the campus, their plain black and blue masks a contrast to the brilliant yellows and reds of campus foliage at its peak.

“I would love to buy a camel mask or a mask with the Italian flag,” says Marcus Povolo, “It’s just hard to find.”

��Ʒ���˸������� mandates that everyone who comes to campus to work, study or visit, whether they are here every day or only some days, take the Hawk Check self-assessment. Other precautions include a surveillance testing program and free, on-campus flu vaccination clinics.

Wearing masks is part of this new normal, a simple, but critical tactic for protection and slowing the spread of the virus. “There are other precautions to take, but I believe wearing masks is an important one,” says Melanie Cordova, a sophomore in the School of Nursing.

Cordova coordinates her masks and outfits. “I personally have a lot of masks and I like to make all of my masks scream ‘me.’”

Chuks Diayi, a senior majoring in Marketing, makes aesthetic choices when choosing face coverings. “I look for solid colors, nothing fancy, to wear on a regular basis. The more eye-catching masks I wear are versatile and fit with every colorway of clothing that I own. My black mask is ‘mad’ nice and definitely my favorite.”

“Masks have become the ‘new norm’ for everyone, says Carlie Van Tassel, a freshman Biology major. “I always make sure I have some around. I leave one by the door and some in the car.

“As for style, since they are so important, having a fun mask can lighten the mood during times like these.”

Story by Staff Writer Marilyn Joyce Lehren

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