by Alisha Baldwin
Huntsville, AL – During this time of change it sometimes helps to get the perspective of other students. You are not alone in your feelings, nor are you alone during this journey during the Covid-19 spread.
With classes being switched to distance learning (online) there are somethings you can do to help keep yourself on track. Sarah Hollingshead who is working toward an accounting degree says, “Get a schedule. Class A from 8:00-9:15, Class B from 9:15-10:30, etc. Pick your days and times, then stick with it.”
Adrian Romero, working toward his bachelor’s degree in science said, “Try to stay on top of things and check blackboard daily for communication from your teacher.”
Emotionally, this has hit many of us especially hard, increasing stress, fear, anxiety, and a plethora of other emotions.
“As a single parent and nursing student there are a lot of unknowns. I have a lot of anxiety about what would happen if my son or I caught the virus and how we would handle that. I also worry for all the front-line workers risking their lives to keep us safe and help those that are suffering,” said Brelin Davis, a first semester nursing student.
Adrian added, “I am terrified, especially because I have had a kidney transplant so I am on immune depressant medication, this means I have a compromised immune system.”
There is importance in practicing social distancing and adhering to CDC guidelines such as hand hygiene and limiting exposure.
“We only go out for essentials like milk, bread, fruit, etc. We are used to going to the store a few times a week because we are a family of five, so getting all that we need in one run is hard. We have tried very hard to limit our exposure to stores and keep the cashiers safe from any germs that we may have,” Sarah said.
So, what advice do these students have for others going through the same thing?
Brelin’s advice is kindness. “Please, please, please be kind to one another. Extend your patience and support to those all around you such as your instructors, peers, family you may be living with, and children that cannot comprehend what is going on. We are all learning how to get through this, and there is no right or wrong way (aside from social distancing) to do this. All the feelings you are having are valid and it is okay to be sad, angry, or upset.”
Adrian said, “please stay home if you can. Even if you get it and do not feel sick you can pass it on to someone like me, or someone elderly and they will have a harder time recovering from it.”
Sarah’s advice: “Stay on task, Tiger King is a black hole you can get sucked into, but don’t forget your schoolwork. Go read outside, get some sun, it is good for the body. Wash your hands. Use any tutoring or additional help that Calhoun offers, and do not be afraid to ask for help. You are not alone and you can do this. Most importantly, stay home.”