By Savannah Poe ’23 News Reporter
Because we have been stuck in quarantine for the last few weeks, many students find themselves constantly scrolling through social media as a source of entertainment. We see many celebrities posting as a way to entertain themselves throughout quarantine, and we also observe how these public figures are coping with and addressing their own confinement.
Some Mercersburg students are inspired by those public figures who have demonstrated activism and generosity at this unprecedented time. Lauren Barnes ’23 admired the way that Amy Adams and Jennifer Garner “partnered together to read books to children while also raising money to keep them fed during the quarantine.” They eased people’s anxiety while raising money to help others, inspiring others to do the same. Barnes added, “I always respected both of them as actors but because of what they’ve done during the pandemic I now see them as role models and aspire to be more like them.”
Another student, Harriet Brown ’22, said she hasn’t been paying a lot of attention to celebrities and public figures because of more important issues relating to the pandemic. Though, the many celebrities that are showing off their houses and flaunting their lifestyles on social media, even while in quarantine, upsets her. She said, “I get very fed up with the constant news on celebrity gossip.” However, she recognizes and admires the celebrities who “have donated or helped health care workers or people suffering from the coronavirus.” Brown appreciates that some of them are doing small things to help, like sharing workout videos or donating food, showing that everyone is trying to help, even in the smallest ways.
I was trying to think about who I am paying attention to during this quarantine, and Sadie Robertson came to my mind. I follow Sadie on her social media platforms and really admire the way she is handling this pandemic. She says that the situation is putting things into perspective for her and that people must try to come together even if we are feeling small and unable to raise awareness. I see Sadie spending quality time with her family and making the most of her situation. I admire the way she is coping with everything calmly.
Charlie McInturff ’23 says that she follows Drew Barrymore, who uses her social media to make people laugh by posting memes about the quarantine and other subjects. Public figures are using their platforms to offer hope and positively impact those who have been affected by the pandemic, as well as inspire Mercersburg students to step back and appreciate the small things in their lives.