BELLAIRE • MEMORIAL • RIVER OAKS • TANGLEWOOD • WEST UNIVERSITY

Change in the Covid-19 era

By Iniya Rajan, age 11 | October 1, 2020

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ADAPTING Iniya Rajan, a sixth grader at Lanier Middle School, reflects on what she’s learned during the pandemic.

Summer 2020 was definitely not the summer I imagined it to be. I've had to be flexible and adapt because of the coronavirus pandemic. A lot of the things which I would have liked to do this year are almost impossible now.

In May, I would have finished fifth grade at Roberts Elementary and celebrated the occasion. We would have had sleepovers and parties, lots of hugs and some tears too. Instead, I said goodbyes virtually. Believe me, it was not the same. I had tickets to Chennai, India, and had plans to spend the summer with my grandparents as I have done in the past. This year though, I am communicating with them only through video chats. Virtual hugs are a poor substitute.

My start date at Lanier Middle School got pushed back, and I had to start sixth grade virtually. No lockers, no uniforms, and no rushing to the next classroom. There are just some of the ways my sixth-grade experience has changed.

Change has come and wrapped itself around my everyday life. I have grown to be more understanding during this pandemic. I am still changing with what will be best for me. A lot of major events in my life have been delayed or made virtual. It will always be a big disappointment.

But I am learning to be grateful and considerate during times beyond my control. Change is inevitable and a big part of everyone’s life today. We all need to adapt and live with it, even when times are rough. I have learned that it is okay to be frustrated sometimes and that virtual classes are not too bad (at least for me!).

I’ve also realized that technology can make communicating with my friends and family easier. I enjoy the moments with my parents as they work from home during the pandemic. Finally, I’ve learned that I can escape into a book whenever I need a safe and quiet place to retreat to.

Editor’s note: Iniya enjoys writing on her blog ourowncorner.com/themintgirl and can also be found @the_mint_girl on Instagram.

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