COM Outlook Summer/Fall 2020

NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY | 31 First-Person Perspectives I t seems like forever ago when my mother called me asking if I had heard anything about the mysteri- ous cases of pneumonia occurring in China. Three months later, near the end of March, my mother called again. This time, however, she asked what my plans would be if the United States had to shut down like other countries. Because she has multiple sclerosis, my mother falls into the category of immunocompromised and at-risk. While many were stocking their households with essential supplies, my boyfriend and I were embarking on a nine-hour drive to Alabama to help my parents brace for the COVID-19 lockdown. We traveled on deserted highways and through empty service plazas to be greeted at my parents’ front door with Lysol, masks, gloves, and a bag to leave our clothes in. For the next two weeks, we attempted to isolate from my parents as much as possible despite living under the same roof. We helped pick up essential items and prepare the house in a way that would minimize the risks of accidental exposure upon entry. With my sister remaining to look after my parents, we returned to South Florida, where a curfew was mandated, stores were closing early, and long lines spacing grocery shoppers six-feet apart seemed surreal. I quickly learned that life was not simply on a temporary hold. We all needed to learn how to adjust. Despite this realization, it took less than a week before I lost track of the days. Not having to attend classes meant more time to spare. When I wasn’t studying, I was sleeping, and this continued for two weeks before I decided I needed a change. With the help of my boyfriend, I created a list of all the things I wanted to accomplish. The next day, we began exercising regularly, cooking new meals, taking long walks with our dog, and even attempting new hobbies, such as sewing masks. I started looking for ways I could remotely volunteer my time, and this eventually led me to become the GetUsPPE liaison for the National Student Response Network. In this role, I organize volunteers to deliver masks to hospitals that desperately need them. Although this is not what I imagined for the year 2020, I am attempting to make the most of it. I’m even starting to enjoy my new normal. Nevertheless, I will attempt to be the first in line when public places like the beach and movie theaters are able to safely resume activity. Until then, however, I will keep finding ways to remain productive. Shanice Walcott is a first-year KPCOM student. BY SHANICE WALCOTT Adjusting and Accomplishing PRAGMATIST ShaniceWalcott Volunteers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, unload a shipment of 63 boxes containing 5,000 face shields, which were donated by a supplier in South Carolina.