Sam RaviMICRO Senior When I first learned about Pitt cancelling in-person classes and moving to remote learning, it made me think of all the things that my fellow classmates and I would be missing for the rest of the semester. But, it also made me realize that there can be some things that we as students can do to improve the situation for ourselves as well as others (and keep up with classes!).
1. Take some time to relax and regroup In an unprecedented situation such as this, it can be confusing and upsetting. There is a lot of unknown that can leave us overthinking. With the extended spring break and possibly being at home, it’s a great time to spend time with family and take a little break before getting back to taking online exams and watching lectures on your computer. Maybe even try some meditation (some free guided meditations here: https://www.mindful.org/audio-resources-for-mindfulness-meditation/) 2. Start making a plan of important things to do Since most of us will likely be keeping up with our classes at home and the possibility of asynchronous classes (do on your own schedule) our study routines are likely out the window. As you start to hear from your professors about updated course plans, start making a plan that will be useful to keep track of class requirements as well as avoid the laziness that is expected when staying at home in your comfy bed. While changes to the course midstream can be very stressful, know that your professors have your best interest at heart - they are working this week to find the best ways to get information to you in the best ways. They know that this transition will be hard, but we will all take it day by day. 3. Find a good place to focus and study Of course nothing can beat staying in bed and finishing assignments on your laptop, but sometimes finding a good place to study is helpful, especially for classes that might involve video communication. Although at this point the public library is probably not an option, utilizing your kitchen table or even a table on your deck or porch (fortunately the weather is getting warmer) is a great place to focus. Maybe take some time this week off to style your backdrop for any video conference classes/office hours you might have? 4. Use this time to find ways to get involved in your local community It’s likely that at this point, in-person volunteering in Pittsburgh or elsewhere is not an option. Try some creativity! Maybe reach out to an old elementary/middle/high school teacher and see if you can help them with their remote learning - you can make a video sharing your college/volunteer/research experience. With libraries and schools closed, you might record yourself reading some books for kids to watch and share with your local community board. Write a blog post for PittBioBlog on your favorite class or experience at college. So many ways to help out while still practicing social distancing. 5. Find ways to stay in touch with your professors and classmates Most first year students and some upperclassmen may have never had online classes before and don’t know what to expect. The most important thing is to keep in contact with your professors for any assignments, as well as keep in touch through virtual office hours as much as possible. If you don’t have your classmates’ numbers for group projects, remember, email still works too! Pitt now has Zoom, which makes it really easy to chat with a group of people: https://pitt.zoom.us Please help us inform the Univer 6.If you need help with schoolwork, still keep in touch with your TAs and tutors Some students find it easier to contact their TAs and tutors when in school, especially in the evenings when studying. Don’t be afraid to contact your TAs and tutor for help in the upcoming weeks so you can do well in your classes. 7.Check your email regularly Check your email for class information, CourseWeb updates, and updates from the university. Remember, staying informed and staying safe are important mantras for the rest of the semester. Although these circumstances were unexpected when we started this semester, sometimes we have to adapt and stay informed. As a graduating senior, I did not expect my four years at Pitt to end this way. But, sometimes things happen unexpectedly and we just need to keep moving forward. Remember, although we Bio Peer Advisors are physically not around at Pitt, we’re still here through email if you need someone to reach out to! If you have any questions about scheduling classes and advising appointments, be sure to keep up with the Bio Dept. Announcements as well! Stay safe and informed for the rest of the semester!
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January 2022
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