In the age of Zoom University, it is easy to get lost behind computer screens and chat screens. The essence of being a college student almost seems to be lost. Grabbing a quick coffee at Dunkin’ before your “early” class at 9:30 AM, speeding through a swarm of students on the Quad as the Bell Tower tolls in the distance, stumbling upon a protest by the Alma Mater on your way to lunch and seeing your study buddy from STAT 101 in the hallway all may have seemed so mundane, but the pandemic has made these moments rose-tinted memories.
So the question is: how does one still feel like a college student while attending Zoom University? The answer is simple: proactively seek out happiness. By happiness I mean the joy in the small things. Despite the difficulty in doing so, it is important to firstly acknowledge the new normal and secondly try and embrace the opportunity it presents.
In terms of normalcy in the new.
While it is true that classes are essentially all online, this doesn’t have to completely alter all your experiences. For example, go on coffee runs with your roommates on early mornings before your classes start or try and sit on the Quad on warmer days and study. Who knows, a little exploring around campus may even help you find new outdoor study spots.
Spending a ton of time in your bedroom on your laptop calls for new desk decorations. Maybe change the furniture orientation in your room (literally change your perspective). A DIY paper-weight or painting a poster for your wall could really spruce up your study space.
Tea is a great study partner, maybe add it to your study routine. Figure out what your healthy study-break snack is going to be. Perhaps you designate a certain pillow or stuffed toy for your back. Figure out if you can stand during one of your classes. You’ve never needed to know your stretches until you’ve been sitting for so long!
Opportunity in change.
Since we are all sick of staring at our computer screens or being stuck at home, go outside when you can. This is your chance to go on your own campus tours. All you need to do is convince a couple of friends to join you as you walk around campus and explore new academic buildings (bet you don’t know where the National Soybean Research Laboratory is!). Maybe camp out on the South Quad and stargaze one night. If you’re 21, try replacing your Friday night bar ritual with a wine and painting night instead. You could spend your Sunday mornings biking around the Arboretum. Take this opportunity to try something random or new, as long as you’re being safe you have nothing to lose!
The prize here is to make this awkward moment we are living in yours, whether that means embracing the change or leaning into the crazy. Remember, college is only for four years, don’t waste your time sticking to a formula for what others told you college is meant to be. Make it yours because this is history and no one has ever been in your place before.