Navigating a “New Normal”

As the temperatures are peaking across the United States, many individuals are heading back to school in a different environment. For me, my school is currently operating in a hybrid mode. This means most classes are online, and some classes are in person. Also, all social events at our University are on hold. This is also my first semester in the role of a Graduate Teaching Assistant. As I start working on building my teaching portfolio, I am understanding many of the struggles that educators are going through this fall.

Participating in classes on Zoom can be challenging with many distractions. These range from my home life going on to the technical issues that naturally occur with online programming. So, it is inspiring to see households across the country work through these barriers and come out successful!

What is Next?

It can be hard to see far into the future when there is so much going on in the present. Because of this, students and academics may feel additional fatigue and a loss of direction. This is natural and pushes us to finding ways to succeed and trudge through. While unhealthy behaviors can develop due to stress, it is important to remember- we are all human, and we will get through this. Self-care is essential. Say it again: Self-care is essential.

Moving Forward

We have no option but to move forward and wade through these muddy waters of unknown. As a result, the benefit is that we are all picking up skills, tools, and connections to come out of this with a greater level of resilience. My cohort, my academic friends, and my colleagues have all adopted different ways of staying sane. This also means “embracing the suck”! I hope that your supportive network can do the same.

Upwards and onwards!