Jazlyn Flores-19 years old/Student/Restaurant Worker
How are you feeling about the COVID-19 pandemic? “Really anxious it’s a scary time because everything is really uncertain its taught me to enjoy the simpler things of everyday life going to get coffee, or a movie with friends. It has definitely taught me to take one day at a time though because this is nothing we can control. What has been making me feel better is everyone is experiencing the same thing and nobody is alone. It’s very overwhelming because our normal everyday things are going to change forever. I think the media has done a really bad job about what their purpose is because their job is to inform the public and what they are doing is causing panic rather than informing us.”
Do you have added stressors in your home? Family out of work? “I do not have a job right now because I was working at a restaurant. It’s more stress for me because I know my mom and dad are struggling and there’s nothing I am able to do about it. I have younger siblings so it’s scary that they are having to grow up during this time it’s not fair because they don’t understand why we aren’t hugging them or why they can’t go play at parks or go out to eat anymore.”
How do you feel about taking classes online? “From being able to observe my sister and friends it’s difficult for them to make such a drastic transition in such little time I think its unfair that college students aren’t getting reimbursed and there was a reason with why they didn’t do online. It is unrealistic for kids to learn as well as they would be in a classroom. I’m fortunate enough to have been able to take this semester off as I’m waiting to get into nursing school so it’s been not as stressful for me to keep up with schoolwork but I’ve tried my best to help anyone around me who needs it.”
How do you de-stress during such a tough time? “I try to go out as much as I can to get fresh air I try to not look at the news anymore I try to try new things that I have been putting off. Also, trying to keep somewhat of a routine because it will drive me crazy if I don’t. I’m taking it day by day and taking a break away from everything going on and try to pick out something good about our day and talk about it as a family. I’ve been getting ready and taking showers to feel I’m up.”
What is your advice to other students during this time? “Keep the same routine as you would for school, get ready for the day even if it’s just taking a shower or putting your hair up or changing into new pajamas getting ready somehow and writing down goals or stuff you’re looking forward to once this is all over. The biggest thing is to stay informed but not overwhelm yourself by watching the news.”