‘How Has COVID Impacted You?’

Nicole Bohlmann, a Coral Gables High student and Girl Scout, asked her classmates to write their thoughts on “How Has COVID Impacted You?” The essay contest, which drew 113 submissions, earned a Gold Award from the Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida.

The essays will be preserved in the State Archives of Florida. Here are excerpts. For the complete essays, go to miamiherald.com

“These changes impacted me greatly, but I am committed to adjusting to the ‘new normal,’ taking the lessons I learned from this hectic year and applying them to my life moving forward and helping others get through similar tough times.”

Imgard Sophia Bonheur

“One of the things that affected me the most was hearing the number of deaths caused by COVID-19. Every night I had to go to sleep thinking about the people that had passed away.”

Juan D. Vazquez

“I’ve finished a yearbook, started a magazine, got into college, endured an existential crisis (or three), explored the abyss of YouTube rabbit holes … and... most importantly, I’ve grown into a stronger individual.”

Samantha Correa, one of the contest’s three winners

“Overall, this pandemic and isolation was just what I needed. It allowed me to find purpose, use my time wisely instead of just filling in the voids with responsibilities and social media.”

Christy Concepcion

“A simple walk outside or family dinner is something I used to take for granted, whereas now they are the most captivating activities I undergo.”

DeeAnne Montero