By Amber Lee ‘24
We can all agree that remote learning has brought drastic changes in our lives. It is a method that is new to everyone, and it has thrown us into a different classroom environment. In the process of adapting, we find ourselves experiencing things that would never have occurred in normal situations. Many of us realized the importance and preciousness of interacting with each other. Also, some developed new hobbies, new interests, and even progressed to complete activities that they always wished to do but never had the chance. Although the pandemic and the online classes were situations that were unexpectedly thrust upon us, making the best out of it and using the disaster as an opportunity and to our advantage definitely helped improve the confusion.
When I first started online classes, I thought it would be much easier and much more comfortable. All that was required was a computer, and I did not have to go all the way to school in order to participate in my classes. However, as time passed and I went through months of zoom lessons, I realized the value of in person learning. I missed the time when I could ask questions without fear of technical difficulties and the opportunity to learn with my classmates. It also made me value my teachers and peers. Staying at home all the time allowed me to appreciate my family as well. My parents made sure my learning environment was quiet and appropriate for studying, and they tried their best to make me comfortable and focused. Aside from studying, we also spent a lot of time together, which bonded us even better than before quarantine. We became even closer and learned to understand each other better, even though it was not an optional opportunity. My family tried to make the best out of the situation, so it was nice to be able to be around them and communicate more often.
Another aspect that I appreciated about remote learning was the fact that I could pursue my interests and passions. Although I love books, I did not have the time to read as much as I wanted to. However, I ended up reading at least five books as so much time was saved during the online classes period. I eventually learned how to use the free periods such as time that was previously used for transportation to my advantage, and I completed so many things during them. I also learned to do the splits and learned to cook from my parents. It was nice to be able to get good use out of those times and make it useful.
Although quarantine and social distancing is a difficult and unprecedented situation for everyone, it made us appreciate the opportunities that we usually take for granted. Also, taking advantage of our free time helped make the period richer and fuller.