Riley Burruss Feels You on What It’s Like Starting College in the Middle of a Pandemic

By Anissa Gabbara

Before beginning her freshman year at New York University, The Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Riley Burruss low-key thought college would be like it is in the movies, which tbh, is high-key relatable.

But IRL, with the coronavirus pandemic still raging, online classes and a socially distanced social life is what 2020 is servin’ — and ya’ girl is dealin’.

“It’s been difficult not having classes in person, but I’m learning how to navigate it as I go,” says the nutrition major. “I feel like it’s difficult to balance schoolwork and a social life, so I have not really adjusted well yet, but I’m sure over time I will get the hang of it.”

She’s already figuring out alternative ways to kick it with her crew (outdoor meetups FTW) — and meet new people, one of her fave things about college so far. “I went to the same school since fifth grade, so it is nice getting out of the same city and meeting people from all over. I love meeting different types of people and just making great friendships,” she says.

A universal freshman experience no pandemic can stop? The challenge of being up and ready to go for those 8 a.m. lectures. “I am still having a hard time with early classes and adjusting to being back in classes, since I have not really studied since March.”

Same, girl. Same.

Despite all this (because 2020 has definitely tried it), the “Better Late than Never” singer is determined to stay thriving, pushing through like the rest of us. “I want to focus on school for the first few months until I adjust, and after that start to work on different things outside of school,” she says. “I am so excited for this new chapter in my life.” 

Photo courtesy of Riley Burruss

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