The struggle is real, but keep going

MA student Eoin Ryan offers some sage advice: 'Lectures and assignments, although important, should not define the college experience.'

These past twelve months have been different. They have presented additional challenges which have pushed us far beyond our boundaries. It has been disorientating and confusing; frustrating and challenging; exhausting and defeating.

But, amidst the grey clouds, we have also been greeted with tiny beams of light; moments of hope, gratitude, and joy. Think back to that time you were reunited with your friends or family.

How about the satisfaction of finally getting that haircut; or maybe nails were top of your agenda. Let's not forget the heart-warming, nation-lifting "A Hug for you" generously gifted to us by Adam King, the aspiring CAPCOM.

In September 2020, I commenced a full-time postgraduate masters in international development at Maynooth University. My third attempt at a masters, he said optimistically - so, this time I was eager to get started (and stay going!).

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Thankfully, I’m still going; but it has been a real struggle. The workload has been testing, as to be expected; however, the ever-changing Covid-19 restrictions have really upset my routine and consequently, my mental capacity to get motivated and stay focused.

Finding a designated quiet space, to align one’s thoughts, separate from the day-to-day living space, has proven to be a psychological war. In addition to the lack of social interaction, or things to look forward to, I’ve also had to account for worry-induced anxiety as an internal culprit occasionally paralysing my ability to think straight about daily tasks; subsequently, undermining my ability to complete academic assignments on-time.

As I’m sure many third-level students will agree, online learning has sucked the life out of college.

Lectures and assignments, although important, should not define the college experience. A healthy balance between learning and social interaction is vital - but currently, it is all up-in-the-air.

Nonetheless, just before Christmas, I was greeted with a moment; a joyful one. As restrictions were temporarily eased, our rather small class - shoutout to my fellow classmates - was presented with an opportunity for us to come together, on-campus, for a one day-long lecture.

Being physically present, interacting with people - socially distant, of course - was bliss. Truly, a beam of light amidst the grey clouds.

In sum, during these troubled times, we must look after ourselves, and support one another; all while actively seeking those pockets of light - to keep pushing forward, together.

Eoin's well-being tips: change your environment (if possible, don't spend your entire day in the one space), talk with someone (go for a walk, make a phone call, free-text HELLO to 50808), take a break from (social) media (embrace tea & chats with someone in your bubble).

* Eoin Ryan is studying International Development at Maynooth University.