April 15, 2020

Did you change your spring break plans because of the virus? From what to what?

Yes! I was supposed to go with friends to my family’s ranch in Oklahoma but instead we had to stay here.

How did you feel when you were informed the remainder of the semester would be held online?

I was/am really nervous about classes being online. When I first heard I was upset, I love being on campus and sitting in my classes.

Where will you be living while courses are held online? Is this a change from usual?

I am living in my apartment here in Austin. Originally I am from Dallas but I decided to stay here, I thought it would be better for classes.

What has been your experience with moving classes online? What’s good? What’s not so good?

It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. None of my classes are doing Zoom meetings so it’s up to me to stay on top of all my assignments which is a little difficult. I’m glad I don’t have to do Zoom meetings but it is difficult trying to communicate things online with emails and canvas announcements.

How has the virus (and the precautions taken to prevent it spreading) impacted your daily life?

I haven’t seen my parents in about a month. They’re 65+ and I’m really nervous about putting them at risk. It’s also thrown off my daily routine because now it feels like I don’t have anything to do since I can’t really go anywhere or do anything. I also had a job on campus and I don’t have that anymore which I really enjoyed. On top of that, I don’t have the club lacrosse team either and as the current president, it makes all the club duties and communication difficult.

How worried are you about getting the virus?

I’m not too worried since I’ve been trying to be preventative but there’s still a bit of anxiety.

Do you know anyone who has gotten COVID-19?

I don’t.

Are you staying in? What are you doing to pass the time?

If I do go out it’s only to the grocery store. Walmart has never been so popular, I’ve gone a couple times and they’ve had lines waiting to go inside.

Are you going out? Where do you go and what is it like?

I’m staying in. I’ve been watching a lot of shows on Netflix and trying to take a good amount of walks to get outside.

What is giving you hope and/or strength right now?

Right now I’m just taking it day by day and trying to limit my COVID-19 news, not to not be aware but to make sure I don’t worry myself too much. I try to talk to my friends and family everyday and that definitely helps.