Walking around the school, you can see some people still wearing masks, but other people may not really know why. There could be many factors influencing people, such as it being a health-conscious or appearance-based decision.

1. One of the main reasons for still wearing a mask is that COVID-19 and getting sick is still possible. Some people may wear masks because they’re afraid of getting sick or spreading the disease to a loved one. One of my friends wears a mask because she visits her grandma every weekend, and she doesn’t want to get her grandparent to contract COVID-19. Additionally, some people may also be mildly sick after their quarantining period, so they can still go to school but don’t want to get other people sick.

2. After masks became common in the past few years, many people have grown accustomed to hiding their faces. Even though masks are less common now, some of these people aren’t comfortable with how they appear in public. I myself don’t necessarily like how I look, so I wear a mask to cover up acne and other insecurities. Some people may be shy and feel more comfortable wearing a mask around people in public, like in close spaces in hallways or just in classes in general.

3. Wearing a mask can be a fashion style too if it fits with the outfit. Even before COVID-19, masks were a trend in certain aesthetics. I’ve seen some unique masks, such as a mask with speakers and lights that change color to the beat of the music. People also put facial expressions on masks to seem more friendly by showing emotion. I’ve also seen realistic-looking masks that match the person’s face, but they’re actually custom masks made to look just like a face.

Not everyone chooses to wear a mask though. After asking a few people in Abington about going maskless, one individual said that it was uncomfortable and made her face break out. Another responded that she just didn’t want to because it’s not required. A friend I questioned said that COVID-19 died down and that there really is no reason to wear masks. A teacher added to this, noting that since she got her vaccines, it’s less of a safety hazard when she doesn’t wear a mask. Another respondent cited physical activity as to why they don’t wear a mask, since for them, it’s easier to be more active without having a mask on their face.