Nicole is a student at Azusa Pacific University and will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology in 2020. She is currently completing an internship at David & Margaret Youth and Family Services. Below she shares her thoughts and experience regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is difficult for one to even begin to explain the impact that COVID-19 has had on the entire world. It has changed the world we knew and completely changed our lives in ways that we never could have expected. The impact of COVID-19 has resulted in the loss of loved ones, cancellations of social events, unemployment, the closure of amusement parks, and the postponement of major events like graduations. This virus took over the country in only a matter of days and the long-term effects that it will have on the economy are undetermined.
Comparing the lives that we are living now compared to the lives we were living before is an incredible difference. The fast-paced lives that we were living before caused extreme stress in people and it seems as if this virus has given us the ability to take a step back and slow down the lives that we were exhausted from. It has also granted us the ability to stay at home and spend time with our loved ones. Although the inability to leave our homes is a difficult one to acclimate to, it doesn't take away from the fact that we would not have been able to do this a few months ago due to the little time that we as adults have for ourselves and our families.
However, as a college student, I will be the first to admit that this was an incredibly difficult transition because of the lack of motivation that comes with having to complete all assignments from home. This time has also allowed many to start picking up on new hobbies that they may have wanted to start for a while. The vast amounts of free time that we currently have is one thing that has allowed me not to feel so overwhelmed anymore and it is something that I am grateful for, but as much as I appreciate this free time I cannot wait until things go back to the way that they were before the virus.
Although this stay-at-home-order is inconvenient, it is crucial for us to keep in mind that the more we abide by these rules, the sooner we will be able to resume our regular and daily activities. So please remember to stay safe and stay inside.
