Finding Closure during COVID
By Mandy Best, Housefellow
Housefellow Mandy Best brainstorms some ways to find closure at the end of this school year during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and quarantine.
Symbols, Closure & Transition
As we approach summer, I have been thinking a lot about how we find closure in this academic year. If you’ve talked with me in the last couple of weeks, you probably heard me reflect on how this remote time has felt like a pause more than an end. Even though we’ve been remote for a month and a half, my brain hasn’t quite processed that students aren’t returning to complete the academic year.
I’m finding myself missing the markers of the close of an academic year at CMU—Carnival, Commencement, last day of class celebrations, even the piles of abandoned belongings left for the Whatever Drive— which usher us into the warmer months of summer. All of these traditions help us find closure, celebrate the accomplishments of the year, and transition into the next season.
Transition Your Space
Some of you are transitioning into remote summer internships. If you are staying in your same space but starting a new endeavor, take some time to transition your space. If you can, maybe move your furniture around a little, or just do a really good clean-up to make the space feel fresh.
Practice Noticing Change
The warmer months are arriving in Pittsburgh. Flowers are blooming and the trees are getting greener. What are the signs of summer where you are? Look out your window, or take a walk and pay attention to what has changed.
Write a Thank You Card to the 2019-2020 Academic Year
Spend some time in gratitude for the gifts this year has given you—new friends, experiences, memories. Maybe you learned some hard lessons that will help you in the future. Find a nice notecard and write this year a thank you note.
Congratulate Yourself and Others!
You did it! Take some time to pat yourself on the back. Successfully completing an academic year is a huge accomplishment—especially this year! If you’re graduating, take some photos (maybe include a mask if you really want to place yourself in this point in time). Let your friends know you’re proud of them, too.