An insight into my pandemic experience

[Azima Ashraf Faazli]

When the initial coronavirus cases started reporting from China, no one including myself had expected the disease to proliferate to the degree of a worldwide pandemic. Our universities were closed mid-March when the first lockdown was announced in Pakistan. As an introvert, this was a seemingly ideal situation – a few weeks off university, anticipation of online classes and hope of initiating a different routine. Little did I know that those few weeks would stretch into a time span of more than a year and uncertainty would prevail everywhere. The semester got delayed, summer break was cancelled and new assessment criteria were developed. Although the first few months were difficult to get accustomed to, soon it started to feel like a new normal. Staying at home gave me ample time to reconnect with my hobbies and catchup on TV series. It also allowed for scheduling weekly video call sessions with friends which previously was not frequent due to our hectic routines. However, beyond my bubble of comfort, the world was in a state of precariousness and havoc. The increasing statistics of corona cases everyday locally and internationally was alarming. Businesses were being shut down and poverty was increasing as well. This was a situation no one had been through previously and hence nobody was there to answer questions like ‘when will the lockdown be lifted’? Or ‘when will university resume on campus’? Every conversation I had consisted of a new update, usually negative regarding the pandemic issue. Just when a ray of hope was seen in the form of decreasing statistics, another lockdown was required to prevent its increase. The online study mechanism which initially seemed attractive to me now became mundane as I soon realized I was learning little while developing less skill and also witnessed my falling grades. This led to emotions of demotivation and apprehension. Amidst this however, I realized the importance of gratitude and began appreciating the fact that I have the comfort of a home, financial security and am currently enrolled in a degree program on contrary to those who have lost their jobs or their loved ones at the hands of the pandemic.
In my opinion, it seems long before things will get completely like the way they used to be before the virus. We will be expected to use masks and practice social distancing in near future as well. Vaccinations, which is another topic of uncertainty might be made compulsory before resuming on ground work or prior to travel. Online mode of work might be continued for workers and students even later on and attendance could be limited. On a personal note, being at home has effected my social communication skills and I think it will take some time to get used to socializing once the situation normalizes. Although the previous year has been difficult, it has taught us a lot on how to shape our lives for the coming years.
Sincerely,
Azima
050
MSE 12B