School and Quarantine

Honestly, this has been tough. That is what I want to say first. Because of the kind of student I am, it is very hard for me to do a lot of online work outside of class due to not being able to focus. Being on campus and having a good learning matrix has always been an aspect that allowed me to be successful in my schoolwork and also find comfort. Sadly, this is not the case with our current situation.

As sad as this sounds, I don’t want to make it sound like there is no hope. Realistically, this has become an interesting opportunity. For many, there will be discomfort, struggles, and overall issues that cause people’s academic performance to take a hit, which is very understandable. But this is also a time to learn new ways of working. In my case, I know that it is harder for me to learn on my own and not have as much face to face interaction with friends and peers, but it has also led to me getting better at working independently. Furthermore, it has also made me better at networking with other students and has made me realize the importance of being able to contact others. Even if it is just having a zoom meeting to mess around and touch base with others, it can do a great deal in helping our situation.

I know that some people might be scared, frustrated, and tired of all of this and just want it to end. But I want everyone to know they are not alone, and a lot of us understand that feeling. Just remember that we can all make it through this, and we will all come out much better students in the end. Finding ways to make a schedule and find that balance between being home relaxing and working is key. It’s easy to put off work and get distracted by the idea of being home, but we all have to remember that we are still in school. As hard as that is, I believe everyone can do it.

~Michael

(Bio: My name is Michael Rexroad, a transfer student from Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City. I am a junior currently studying cell and molecular biology with a minor in chemistry.)