Dear all,
COVID-19 has been around since the December of 2019. From being a small outbreak in Wuhan, China that was to be managed by China to being one of the most deadly and widespread virus the world has ever faced, COVID-19 has certainly affected everyone’s life in somewhat similar way. My experience during corona virus would be quite similar to an average student.
I was in the second year of my college when corona virus started to spread throughout the world. We were having pre-boards at that time when we saw the news that corona virus has indeed came to Pakistan. Our pre-boards were cancelled however there were speculation that final board exams would however take place. During these holidays, me and my friends would sit at home and play video games throughout the day. However, we had restricted our outings more and would abide by the SOPs the government had set like wearing a mask, avoiding gatherings, keeping a 6 feet distance and sanitizing at all times. In the beginning, corona cases would increase at most 100 a day but then the rise was exponential and nearly 250,000 cases were reported till July. Our papers were at first delayed and then were cancelled. I was happy that I got to play video games the whole day, but the psychological effects of not going outside were becoming prominent like laziness, no willpower, and just total unenthusiastic approach to life. On the bright side of things, I got to spend more time at home.
However, once i got admission into the university the studies became really difficult. It badly effected my daily routine as well as my sleep cycle. The situation of Corona virus was not getting any better too. From having physical classes all my life to suddenly changing to the online concept was never easier as no-one had any prior experience.
Not only did it effect my education, it also had a drastic effect on my daily social life. The lockdown imposed by the government became harsh day by day. Very little to no interaction at all really started to drive the lethargy in me. The empty roads and the silence in the streets really felt unusual for the first couple of weeks. I had never experienced anything like it before in my life. The ban on sports ground was a dreadful news for me and limited my physical activities as well
It was a really tough year for me in every aspect and to worsen the situation, me and my family got infected by the corona virus. These few weeks were very critical and all of us had to recover on our own due to the widespread . The hospitals all over Pakistan were becoming crowded with Corona patients and it was a state of emergency for all of the country.
This hectic and life changing year had an astounding effect on my personality. I definitely became a mature version of myself and experienced things that wouldn't have been possible otherwise.Not only has it taught me the importance of rules and regulations but also how we together as a nation can come forward in desperate times and overcome any obstacle in our way. I am hopeful that in the near future, the scientists will be able to give us a comprehensive cure of the virus and soon we will go back to our normal lives .
This year has been a lot easier in terms of the management. I have become more responsible and self-aware. The lockdown, studies and other extra curricular activities are easier to manage now and i have grown into this new phase of life.
From an educational point of view, I think that online classes are hindering the learning ability of the students and also causing problems to the aspirants living in the rural areas. We need to get back to normal ways as soon as possible so the harm already done can be rectified somehow. Although this is only possible if we get rid of the COVID-19 in the first place so we need to work with what is available for the time-being.
Lets hope for a better future and try to play our part by following the SOPs laid by the health officials and the government against this virus so all of us across the country and the world can lead better lives.
Sincerely,
Osama Zahid
012
Aero-19 B