Written by Beatriz Silva
Note: Amelia is a pseudonym for the interviewee who requests anonymity.
The COVID-19 pandemic affected the whole world in various aspects. While millions lost their lives, others had to cope with the death and sickness of loved ones, an unprepared health system, mobility restrictions, financial concerns, several mental health issues, an abundance of uncertainty, and various other problems.
Although its effects were worldwide, some groups especially felt its outcomes, including international university students. This group had to deal with additional financial burdens, difficulties in getting study permits, an adapting educational system with online classes, feelings of isolation and lack of community connection, among many others. As we approach the middle of this year, over two years have passed since the World Health Organization recognized COVID-19 as a global pandemic. With over 62% of the world’s population vaccinated against the coronavirus, treatments being developed, and restrictions all around the world being lifted, many are happy to leave this historic moment behind them. On the other hand, many people still do not believe we should let our guards down.
Amelia - who preferred to not disclose her real name - is one of the students who feel like it is too early to say that we have overcome this pandemic. While many others are glad that classes are going back in person, and social distancing and mask mandates are being lifted, Amelia still thinks it isn’t safe. This period has in fact been critical not only to people’s physical but mental health. The feelings of loneliness and isolation due to the social distancing measures used to combat the pandemic have been a severe problem for many students. However, Amelia reminds us that physical health is equally important. For her, restrictions related to COVID-19 are being lifted too quickly, which represents a greater health risk, as cases could start rising again and we would be back to a health emergency. Although she has also been severely mentally affected by COVID-19, she recognizes that the best would be to wait and slow down the lifting of protective measures. The lifting of such measures and the return of in-person classes for her represents an additional risk other than relief, as it is for many.
Even as many of us urge the return to our normal activities, the question left by students like Amelia is intriguing: are we really ready to move on from COVID-19, or are we biting off more than we can chew?