The coronavirus outbreak disrupted the lives of students around the world. In Georgia, schools statewide closed their doors in March and remained closed for the rest of the school year.

For the high school and college classes of 2020 that meant a loss of traditional coming-of-age rituals like prom and graduation, replaced with socially distanced celebrations and drive-by ceremonies.

Through it all the seniors persevered, learning to adapt to the new normal of life during a pandemic.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution followed several area high school and college students through their last months of the school year, talking with them about how their lives were impacted and what it all means for their futures.

Read about the unprecedented school year, the 11 students profiled by the AJC and hear how they faced the challenges.

READ | COVID crisis forces Class of 2020 to become the Class of Perseverance

READ | Class of 2020: Anxious, energized, eager to meet the future

WATCH | 2020: The Class of Perseverance

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The quadrangle at Oxford College of Emory University. The university announced Wednesday it will be tuition-free for undergraduates whose families earn less than $200,000. (Courtesy of Kay Hinton)

Credit: Kay Hinton

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com