Answer:
Though certain things in my life have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, I would say I have so far been one of the lucky people who has not been too negatively affected.
Currently, no one dear to me has been infected and hopefully that does not change in the days following this publication. Those in my life who are especially at risk have been practicing social distancing and staying in their homes, as everyone should continue to do.
I have been fortunate enough to still be able to make an income. My two campus jobs moved online, and though I’m grateful to still be able to earn money through them, my hours have suffered. Luckily, I work for a veterinary clinic, which is an essential business, and with the cancellation of on-campus classes and sports, I have been able to work more shifts there.
However, as it is with everyone, I still have been impacted by the measurements we all have had to take to avoid spreading this virus.
As a student-athlete, the sport of track and field has been a huge part of my everyday life for the past several years. COVID-19 took away my senior outdoor track and field season. Though the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has given all seniors another season of eligibility, I’m still unsure as to whether I will be able to take advantage of that since I’m set to graduate this spring.
Though running is still an available form of exercise, recent injuries have prevented me from being able to run too much or too hard. The closure of weight rooms prevents me from being able to lift, which is one of my favorite activities to do. I have often used lifting as an outlet for any built-up frustration, but now I’m unable to do that even though I could certainly use it.
I have applied for an EOU Master’s degree, but unless I get a graduate assistant (GA) position, I might not be able to go through with the program due to costs. As of right now, I have no idea what will happen. If I am unable to join the Master’s program, then I won’t be able to compete in uniform. I may never get the chance to achieve and surpass the goals I had for myself.
The pandemic has also prevented me from being able to travel. It has always been my dream to visit other countries. My parents and I were going to take a trip to Europe this summer. I was extremely excited and having to postpone the trip was quite devastating for me. I’m grateful that it was only postponed until next year and not cancelled entirely.
Even through all the negative things that have happened, there has been a silver lining. With the cancellation of sports and a light class load, I have gotten to spend more time with my dog. I was even able to bring home a foster dog that I have been working with. Either my roommate or I will adopt her, though we have yet to talk that out. Though it may be difficult at times, it’s important to keep your head up and remember that this won’t go on forever. Make the best of it in any way that you can
