What it’s really like to be a university student during a pandemic

Whether you’re in your first year, second year or final year at university we’ve all had to stay indoors and adapt to the new changes imposed by the government.

Let me begin with the lectures & online classes

There are pros to this form of learning as many of us are sat at home, most likely in bed with our pyjamas on, but I think the cons outweigh the pros. Many are finding online learning less engaging, productive and effective but rather distracting, frustrating and more challenging.

The technical problems are also a huge downside as many have to deal with Wi-Fi issues and software trouble.

Sitting down in front of your laptop for hours is another issue that many are having trouble coping with. This is because our concentration is often diverted to other things such as using our phones, doing online shopping or making lunch whilst our lectures are on.

Social life

This has probably been the biggest change in the midst of this pandemic. Our social life was taken away and being students we are especially used to a routine that involves meeting up with friends. Our social life is very limited and the maximum we can do is video chat, some grocery shopping or go for a walk.

Salma Abdulsharif said: “This pandemic is making university turn into something I never pictured it would be because the loneliness that we students now feel is immense.”

Struggling financially

With most students relying on part-time jobs in the hospitality or retail sectors, many have lost their jobs and are left with no option but to rely on hardship funding from the university.

Missing campus

Many of us miss the basic things like chatting with our friends or going to the library for group studies or even grabbing a coffee during our breaks. These were some of the things that made our university experience special.

Camila Wilson said: “ I like to be the social student that chats to the lecturer about something in the course or at university so I find it difficult to this part remotely.”

Let’s hope the vaccine and the possible easing of some of the restrictions bring back some normality to our lives, and most importantly to our education.