After participating in this virtual project this semester, it felt very independent working on all of it from behind my computer, and I wish there was more room and time to write all of what I've learned with this opportunity. However, I cannot emphasize enough how pivotal others' roles were in allowing me to pursue my interest in comparing the impacts COVID-19 has had on teaching and learning experiences in the US and Austria. First and foremost, my mentor, Renée McCormack, was instrumental in getting me in contact with teachers and administrators in Vienna as well as guiding me throughout the entire project. So many more are also to thank, from the coordinators in the IiVP, to numerous other UIUC students involved in our local outreach program (REACT), and to the 4th grade teachers and students in Champaign County and Vienna that I've been privileged to interact with.

IiVP Alumnus Max Masquelier
(Global Studies/History)