Did you change your spring break plans because of the virus? From what to what?
Yes, Somewhat. Everything happened in the middle of my spring break
How did you feel when you were informed the remainder of the semester would be held online?
Expected. I had one class that was not a great option for an online format.
Where will you be living while courses are held online? Is this a change from usual?
At my family’s house. No change
What has been your experience with moving classes online? What’s good? What’s not so good?
Not good. I have not learned anything new. Everyone is trying their best though to transition.
How has the virus (and the precautions taken to prevent it spreading) impacted your daily life?
Work has changed, all of my family members are all home. I have only paid the necessities. I have begun a healthier diet due to the coronavirus. I have lost 15lbs since cutting out fast food and purchasing healthier food options. I go on walks in my neighborhood more. I do, however, go for a thirty-minute drive to create a normal sense. I do not get out of my car.
How worried are you about getting the virus?
I understand that eventually it should happen. Since my immune system is weak, I find it crucial for me to postpone contracting the virus until hospitals are fully equipped again. I have asthma, and every flu I get I have a somewhat serious case of pneumonia afterwards. As long as I can combat possible pneumonia I should be fine.
Do you know anyone who has gotten COVID-19?
No.
Are you staying in? What are you doing to pass the time?
Yes I stay in or I go for a neighborhood walk without touching anything besides my dog’s leash. I waste time and avoid going into an overthinking depression by taking baths and using them as “thought breaks.” I listen to Podcasts and have music or the TV on most of the time. I have focused my energy on a few social media challenges such as “30-day music challenges.” I have cleaned, created a victory garden with my family, play board games most nights, and I have written a few letters to friends to stay in contact. Schoolwork and Work are also great ways to pass the time while listening to music. I have also started and finished a few home improvement projects.
Are you going out? Where do you go and what is it like?
The first two weeks my family and I went out for short trips to Lowes for supplies. We only use online pick-up options for Walmart and Target now and we limit that to once a week. One time we went to McDonald’s drive thru for a treat and stayed inside the car. These are the only places we have been to.
What is giving you hope and/or strength right now?
At first it was taking things one week at a time, now it is saying that every day is an accomplishment and that me, and American in general, have a fortunate life. A collective understanding of flattening the curve is the core as to why I find staying at home essential. I understand that this is only a short period of life, and that I have at least a year to graduate and, therefore, I have wiggle room to find quality jobs.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about what you’re feeling or experiencing right now?
Emotions always come in waves. Even though normal days can erupt my thoughts I have right now, the restriction on staying in and the unknown ending date for this pandemic amplifies everyone’s thoughts, emotions, and actions. My boyfriend, who lived in Pensacola, had to stay in Colorado and thankfully found a job up there. All of his jobs in Pensacola were canceled, and now he is using this opportunity to stabilize himself in Colorado now. The planned move to Colorado happened about a year and a half ahead of schedule but is also the best move right now since it is securing a job for him with a church he planned to serve (and desperately need him right now). Transitioning into a long-distance relationship during this pandemic has not been easy. Little moments every day, however, help stabilize my thoughts and feelings for the better. That and finding ways to be productive and meet new people during this time (Friend apps like Bumble BFF) have been crucial.