Reaching out

When I found out that I would have to study online I was very anxious because my course involves a lot of practical work and I was confused as to how this would be run. I was scared that I wouldn’t have as much support or accessibility to my lecturers. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to work as well at home, as I don’t have access to all of the software that I need. I was afraid that I couldn’t partake in lab sessions or do my dissertation to the best of my ability because my laptop is problematic, and I couldn’t afford a new one as times are really hard. I was nervous that I wouldn’t be as organised at home as I am on campus. However, the uni helped me out with every single one of these issues!

My lecturers have adapted our lab tutorials to make them software based rather than hardware, so we can still have lab sessions this year. My lecturers and the school office have been so supportive and reliable. The CSEE department created a virtual work lab so I don’t need to worry about downloading all of the software,I literally just have to login to a website and I can access all of the software on an online computer (it’s the same process as Moodle). I spoke to someone about my laptop situation and she told me about the university’s Hardship Fund whereby they are giving students laptops and I am eligible to claim one which I’m so grateful for! Having everything available online has actually helped my studies and organisation skills because I can literally see everything that I need to do.

Although it has been an extremely tough year, I am very grateful that the university have been very understanding and available to me. I really appreciate all of the help that I have been given. Please do reach out for help if you need it.

We are all going through hard times together so please don’t feel alone. There is support out there and people are willing and to help you!

I hope my story helps someone out there.