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Marine biology
Now, six weeks into being essentially isolated at home, nearly everything about life has changed dramatically. Working remotely has been a challenging adjustment—including my makeshift standing desk in the kitchen! But I am thankful for the security of my job and the impetus that it provides higher education to undergo much-needed self-reflection and adaptation. I have recognized how much I value human interaction and connection in all aspects of my life, but especially in sport and work.
As a lifelong swimmer (and former Rhody varsity swimmer), the most single most difficult change has been not being able to swim. I haven’t been out of the water for this long since I graduated from URI! Running and living room cross-training seems to be keeping the COVID 15 at bay, but just doesn’t compare, and it’s unfortunately too cold in Wisconsin to venture into the open water just yet. Even planning for upcoming races is next to impossible, as all events are cancelled (or virtual) until further notice. My one saving grace has been running outdoors and competing in a remote, virtual running team weekly race challenge with other members of my local running club. That and a weekly Friday night virtual cocktail hour with friends and family have kept the mental quaran-monsters away for the time being.
I think life on the other side of this will be slow to return to a new normal. I hope we all hold onto an appreciation of the small things in life, and continue to value connection with folks near and far, our medical and service personnel, true science-based decision-making, and the treasures of our environment.
Now, six weeks into being essentially isolated at home, nearly everything about life has changed dramatically. Working remotely has been a challenging adjustment—including my makeshift standing desk in the kitchen! But I am thankful for the security of my job and the impetus that it provides higher education to undergo much-needed self-reflection and adaptation. I have recognized how much I value human interaction and connection in all aspects of my life, but especially in sport and work.