Meet the 2021 Scholars

"Living through a global pandemic with a chronic illness, what is one piece of inspirational advice that you would give to other students with CF who are in the same or similar position?"

The isolation and virtualization we’ve experienced during the pandemic has caused a parallel epidemic of loneliness, grief, and fear. I realized this year how incredibly important it is to balance one’s responsibilities to school or work with caring for one’s mental, social, and spiritual health. No longer can we take for granted how valuable and healing it is to gather with our families and friends in person! As a result of my illness, I have been extra careful in public spaces and I had to physically isolate from my friends for several months in the earlier part of the pandemic. To stay mentally well, I made regular commitments to keep in touch with friends and family by phone and video call. Making a schedule to connect with loved ones was very important for me during that time. As soon at it was safe to do so, I met with a small group of friends outdoors (masked and physically distanced) to play music or practice archery. One of the hidden blessings of this pandemic is that it has encouraged people to be outside together more often! Being stuck indoors and over-using screens negatively impacts our physical and mental health. Being outside daily in Nature has been crucial for my mental health this year. Thus my advice for other CF students is to make mental healthcare, safe socializing, and Nature immersion a top priority. Our studies and work are inevitably impacted when we feel disconnected from our friends, families, and Nature.