Finding a New Normal as Students, Educators, and Parents The first weeks following the closing of RVU’s campuses—the result of the coronavirus pandemic—were marked by a flurry of email updates, troubleshooting internet connections, the transition from hands-on learning environments to digital platforms, and, for some, setting up a new office or study space amidst the perpetual pandemonium of children and pets. Students and employees share their stories of how these changes have impacted them both professionally and personally.
RVUCOM Adapts to Remote Learning and Social Distancing Though the recent social distancing guidelines have confined us to our homes, RVU students are coming together for virtual study sessions and fun activities. The SGA has begun hosting online games, trivia nights and volunteer opportunities, such as a mask-making initiative (the masks will be donated to veterans' homes, long-term care facilities, and other places of need). "We are also in the process of putting in an online study hall," said Paul Yang, OMS II, SGA President at RVU-SU. At RVU-CO, the SGA is initiating an a letter-writing campaign: "We are [writing] to congratulate the Class of 2020 as part of their graduation celebration," said Zoe Roth, OMS II, SGA President at RVU-CO. The campaign will be an elective opportunity for students and is currently ongoing. Finally, the SGA is bring-
ing students together for Zoom gatherings and encouraging clubs to host virtual events. Adjusting to a remote-learning environment has proven to be a challenging transition, especially from a social standpoint. "It has been hard for me to adjust from a social setting to a more isolated one," said Nick Hora, OMS II. "I stay in touch with friends by using FaceTime and Zoom, which makes it much better." As for exploring the digital tools available to medical students, SD Hora says now is the time to fully learn how to use them. "I feel like [RVU] has done an excellent job of transferring over to online material, and I commend them for a having a plan and constantly keeping us posted."
"I miss the people of RVU! Teaching via Zoom is not my preferred curricular delivery method, but we are making it work. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet the animals and little humans that RVUers call family. I’m also grateful for less time driving in traffic, less air pollution, more frequent meditation, and more family time. These are welcome changes." Rachel Linger, PhD Associate Professor of Pharmacology
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