For being in a pandemic and social distancing for almost six months, this year has been nothing less than a wild rollercoaster ride. From my emotional ups and downs that created so much anxiety and depressive feelings to the consistent feeling of being unproductive but then also tired when I have nothing to do. This year has me questioning what else can be thrown our way during the craziness of 2020.
So, what have I been up to? Well honestly, I still feel like I have not done as much as I should have in the last few months. I spent too much time on Pinterest, spent hours on TikTok, watched countless Netflix shows and movies, and I even took a break from Instagram due to the anxiety I was experiencing. I started selling my clothes on Depop and started a little sticker business on Redbubble. I gained the quarantine ten which set me back on my fitness goals and lowkey made my depression worsen during the time. If I am being honest I am extremely insecure about my weight gain because now none of my clothes fit again but in the opposite way. Before the quarantine when my clothes were too big and I ordered new clothes that would fit me. I also happened to actually miss classes and school in general, so I finally updated my LinkedIn account, resume, and ended up landing my first Public Relations internship for the Fall 2020 semester.
So, what did Summer 2020 teach me? Do not take people and things for granted. This year has been filled with so many losses for many and it has brought a lot of sadness into my heart but also a lot of acceptance and appreciation for the life I am still living. I have personally lost distant family members and family friends due to COVID-19 which hit me harder than expected. Coming back on to campus I am glad I do not have to stay on campus longer than an hour and a half most days. I tend to get anxiety knowing that people are still partying on the weekends and are going out to grocery stores, restaurants, and campus without a mask during this time. Experiencing a loss due to the virus I think would impact anyone, but it makes me extremely nervous being outside. Additionally, knowing that my boyfriend and I could possibly pass the virus to his parents, grandparents, and siblings and not even know also makes me anxious about the situation and being in public space.
In all, please be considerate about others on campus and in public spaces. Stay safe, wear a mask, and carry your hand sanitizer at all times.