The Impact of a Global Pandemic on my Journey to RD

When I was in my second year of undergraduate studies in late March, the COVID-19 lockdown happened. As a result, all classes moved online, including the final exams in March 2020. At that time, I was working in the school food bank. They instructed us to close the center for two weeks, which turned into two years. After that, I took my exams online, and my job was cut short, but I was compensated at least. Professors and students were trying to navigate this new reality. Online exams were easier for the most part due to not needing to commute to school. However, proctored exams, monitored with camera and microphone by lockdown browser technology, were another story. Fortunately, the second-year final exams were mostly not proctored, mostly online with a time limit or take-home exams. In general, COVID-19 may not be good in terms of losing my job and needing to commute long distances for my next job. HOwever, it was a great learning experience and opportunity to work for long hours while being in school, and I learned a lot from my next job after being let go of food bank coordinator.

After exams and being let go from my job, I started to look for another job while attending summer classes. With the advice of my friend, I found an online grocery store warehouse job. At first, I struggled with that job due to the long commute time and using multiple modes of transportation to get to the warehouse. Another challenge was getting used to the new types of unique vegetables and being fast enough to meet the job's expectations. Initially, I struggled to be fast and sufficient while effectively performing the job, but I later got used to it. I worked full-time during the summer while taking two courses, and then I reduced my hours when the Fall semester began.

During the Fall semester, all of my classes were delivered online, and I moved to another place. I found online courses to be easier for me due to my busy work schedule and long hours, even with a reduced schedule. Not commuting and being able to listen to classes at home helped me save time and increase efficiency in my studies. I worked three days a week, and the rest was mainly dedicated to lessons and assignments. One challenge I faced was commuting to work; the bus schedules would differ because most places were in lockdown, and as an essential worker at an online grocery store warehouse, I had to adapt. During these lockdown times, I learned to juggle multiple responsibilities, such as online school work and volunteering.

Additionally, I realized that online classes can be a great time saver, even though this may not be true for everyone. For the last two years, the regulations regarding online versus in-person classes have changed, but I managed to attend school online over the previous two years, except for my laboratory course, where I had to be in person with the necessary PPE. Online schooling has given me enough time to work and pay for expenses.

One of the struggles I faced was a temporary injury I sustained at work, which impacted my performance both at work and school in my last year due to needing regular physiotherapy for some time. I have since recovered, but this injury taught me that I am not suited for manual labour-intensive jobs. I prefer a job that does not require as much manual labour. Thus, I quit my job at the end of last year before starting my Master of Public Health program. This last year of undergraduate was intense, especially with the application process to schools, master's, and practicum programs. I spent a lot of time preparing my application package to ensure it met the standards for schools. Thankfully, I was accepted into the University of Toronto Master of Public Health program, from which I will graduate in June 2024. My journey during the COVID-19 lockdown was not easy and required flexibility and learning moments. It helped me grow and become more resilient as a person. 

My advice for others, whether navigating a global pandemic or not, are:

•  to use your social network for support 

• utilize school and work resources, including learning strategists, counselling, and career advisors. 

  • Career advisors such as the career centre at your school and their services such as career advice for job hunting, networking, finding your path, applying for graduate school

  • Work resources, depending on your work, may have counselling services and other healthcare services you can utilize for free.

  • Academic success centre resources for both the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University had those resources, which provide free appointment time with learning strategists if you are struggling with school or with your classes. Most schools have these resources so take a look on your school website to see what yours offers.

  • I struggled with writing help at the beginning of my undergraduate studies, especially since most schools have faculty writing centres that provide workshops and individual appointments to help students with their writing skills. 

  • I learned many resources when I was an undergraduate and graduate peer mentor in grad school. Check out your school website to see if you can meet with a Peer Mentor or Peer Advisor, too!

Despite these bumpy roads, I hope everyone can overcome their struggles and challenges to becoming a dietitian.

My school email is berin.arikan@torontomu.ca, if you would like to connect with me or ask more questions about my experiences!