As well as halting economic development and restricting societal freedom, the unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19 has also radically changed the way in which Universities now deliver teaching; although technology may facilitate distance learning as a partial solution to our current circumstances, this does not preclude University students like myself experiencing challenges to our academic journey, as we adapt to a new norm of virtual study.
From the perspective of a penultimate-year law student, completing online examinations that contribute to my degree was demanding for various reasons; the sudden University closure meant that I was unable to access all resources and the inapt environment of studying at home proved challenging in the revision period. I also missed the in-person guidance from faculty staff which I have found to be very helpful for my exam preparation. Personally, working under these conditions was a significant adjustment, since I am accustomed to having routine access to campus facilities such as the library, being able to focus on my work fully equipped and undisturbed. Overall, I found it quite stressful having to battle the emotional strain of COVID-19 against undertaking assessments, which I believe weakened my ability to showcase my full academic potential.
Despite COVID-19 having disrupted my traditional University experience, the current crisis has paved the way for an evolution of innovative learning methods. The University of Leicester has launched a new programme called ‘Ignite’, which entails a blended teaching approach for the next academic year; most lectures and tutorials will be delivered online, but I will still have the opportunity to participate in face-to-face classes, which reflects the University’s commitment to ensure that students receive quality education, without compromising their safety.
The consequences of COVID-19 on my future career is another area of concern; research by Monica Langella from LSE’s Centre for Economic Performance found that recession, which is likely to follow the pandemic, will have negative effects on future earnings and employment opportunities for students entering the job market. However, the University of Leicester has been immensely supportive in helping students overcome these challenges, by ways of scheduling Virtual Law Fairs and conducting Online Webinars; such events provide students with a platform to interact with potential employers, enhance our legal knowledge and prepare us for the uncertain future, which is a venture I feel slightly anxious about, but ready to embark on nonetheless.
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