With the COVID-19 pandemic still in full effect, Colorado Mesa University students are challenged to expand their horizons while seeking innovative ways to have fun while obeying social distancing guidelines. 

The well-known Colorado National Monument has been a tourist attraction and local favorite to hike for generations. For Victoria Pater, a psychology major from New Hampshire, hiking has been a very cathartic activity. 

“I cried the first time I saw it,” Pater said.

Now she frequently visits the Monument for a safe and fun way to get out.  

Kayla Miller, also a psychology major from Brighton, Colorado, has enjoyed going outdoors while remaining a safe distance from people as well. Miller also expressed her concern for being safe while remaining on campus. 

“I don’t want to be the reason the campus shuts down,” Miller said. 

Miller has also seen a student set up a laptop and projector to watch movies and shows underneath the tent on Campus. 

“I guess one thing that I’ve gotten out of this is that students are being really innovative on how they keep themselves entertained,” Miller said.  

Considering options are limited, students have been also expanding their horizons and taking up new hobbies. Abby Harnan, a criminal justice major from Aurora, Colorado, has been indulging in relaxing hobbies such as painting and watercolors.  

Harnen says that CMU has been doing a good job keeping students safe during the pandemic. 

 “I feel pretty optimistic about the safety of our campus,” Harnen said. 

Whether it is hiking, climbing skiing or snowboarding, Grand Junction hosts many different outdoor activities year-round.