How do we respond when major events happen while we’re students?
Sitting here in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and Milton, I’m reflecting on the time when COVID-19 arrived while I was a graduate student.
There’s something funny about being a college or young graduate student, where you’re certainly no longer a child, but you might not yet feel like an adult. You’re independent, yet likely don’t have a full-time income. You don’t live with your parents, but you might not be fully on your own. This unique place in life is a blessing and joy most of the time, but can feel unstable when major weather, health, or political events take place.
Thinking back to navigating just under 3/4 of my graduate school experience in a fully remote setting, here are some helpful things I remember to share with those who are students now.
1. Salvage the important parts of your routine.
For me, that’s eating the same breakfast each day, crushing as much work as possible before the clock strikes noon, and taking some time to myself to read each night before bed. If it feels like chaos is surrounding you, what can you keep consistent?
2. Be real with those closest to you.
You’re not the only one wondering when it will end, when the power will come back on, or when you can return to some of your favorite creature comforts. Find camaraderie and solace with your classmates, friends, and family. The best mood booster for me during hurricane aftermath has been grabbing a drink and a bite at local restaurants. It’s a great mental reset.
3. Be open to a silver lining.
If you’re not there yet, I get it. But, is there anything from this situation you can learn, or even some extra free time you can devote to something important to you? I’ve learned a lot about disaster preparedness, and I know that’s something that will come to serve me in the future.