Before COVID-19, everyone loved coming back to UCLA from summer break. Fall quarter used to be full of new starts and new possibilities. Now, that’s not really the case because of the ongoing pandemic. UCLA students are either hiding in on-campus housing/off-campus apartments or have decided to stay safe at their homes. Not only do we have to deal with the anxieties of the pandemic, but we also have to deal with Zoom University, which has been hard for many students for a myriad of reasons. It also doesn’t help that one of the most important elections is happening during this quarter as well. Although things feel bleak, I asked some of my friends at UCLA to tell me how they have been able to stay sane through such an insane period of our lives. Hopefully, my friends can offer some hopefulness in how they have been surviving this quarter thus far.
- Kristen
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“Contrary to popular opinion, I like certain aspects of Zoom University. I enjoy having extra time on my hands since I don’t have to run around campus anymore. This allows me to delve deeper into my side hobbies and passions. I’ve been painting and writing more in my journal, which has helped me relax in between studying for my never-ending midterms. When things get a little stressful and chaotic from being cooped up inside all day, I like to take long walks around Westwood or campus and maybe grab something to eat—just to take my mind off of things. Other than that, I love organizing and cleaning my room as another way to cope with stress.”
- Eva
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“I’m investing in myself! Especially with everything going on in the world around us, from the fear surrounding the pandemic to anxiety due to the election. I’m taking time to meditate, do yoga, and really be present with what I need at the moment. Before, I used to consider this as selfish, but when everything around you seems uncertain and chaotic, it’s important to remember that the one thing we can control is ourselves and our wellbeing.”
- Maria
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“Having the opportunity to work in my lab on campus has been helping to keep me sane. Besides that, working out and playing guitar have been really fun, as well as seeing my friends (distanced).”
- Danika
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“Since I’m living at home, I sometimes drive to campus to see friends from a distance and go to Hillel events. It’s a super busy quarter for me, so I’m mostly at home working. Seeing my friends on Zoom for clubs that I’m in is really fun because it lets me keep up with college life and socialize after a long day of classes. I also enjoy going for walks, getting some delicious snacks at Trader Joe’s, listening to music and singing.”
- Gali
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“First off, having a job (or 2) definitely helps a LOT. It gives me a sense of purpose and a place to go that isn’t my bedroom/living room. I’ve also picked up a lot of new hobbies and have been able to spend a lot of time on them! Some of those hobbies include sewing, baking, painting and skating. Baking bread has been my favorite new hobby because it’s so relaxing and grounding.”
- Vanshika
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“I’m going on evening walks to clear my mind and get fresh air (well as fresh as Westwood air can be). And I’m making the most of my many, many streaming website subscriptions.”
I admit to being somewhat surprised at their positive attitudes across the board, as we know of those who are struggling at least emotionally with the continuing crisis, and so many of us know someone who lost someone because of COVID-19. I hope these more positive perspectives are helpful in finding ways to cope and stay sane during this continuing unusual Fall quarter. We are all trying to push forward and survive in 2020, which includes surviving Zoom University. No matter how stressful the world gets, it’s important to take care of yourself and prioritize your mental health. Also, make sure to reach out to your loved ones and take a break once in a while to catch your breath. We will get through this safely together.