Chapter 20: The Pandemic

In the middle of March, news broke on Twitter: a pandemic had struck, halting all face-to-face classes indefinitely. Quarantine measures were swiftly implemented, and I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of devastation. Why now? Why is it like this?

As days blurred together in the confines of my home, I gradually realized that perhaps this pause was a hidden blessing—a chance to reconnect with my family and refocus on my academic pursuits without distractions.

The routine of remote learning soon settled in, though it brought with it a sense of monotony and demotivation. Social interactions were limited, outdoor activities sparse. Yet amid these challenges, my academic journey continued, bolstered by the support and collaboration of friends like Jackie, Charlize, Joseph, Dane, and others. Together, we navigated through quizzes, tackled the intricacies of programming fundamentals, and shared study notes, fostering a mutually beneficial academic camaraderie.

While the academic workload sometimes felt repetitive, my feelings for Jackie remained steadfast, undiminished by the passage of time.

During our leisure hours, our circle of friends sought solace in online gaming sessions—a welcomed escape that brought laughter and solidarity amidst the uncertainties of quarantine. It was a different kind of joy, a digital bond that bridged the physical distance between us and provided much-needed respite from the challenges outside our doors. Together, we found ways to endure, leaning on each other as we adapted to this new, isolated reality.