Surviving Grad School in the COVID-19 Era Pandemic: A Tale of Zoom, Pajamas, & Coffee Mugs doubling as Wine Glasses
Embarking on the journey of graduate school for professional counseling is a transformative experience, filled with challenges that shape not only your academic prowess but also your personal and professional growth. Now, throw in the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic (or seemingly apocalypse, TP shortage and all), and the journey becomes a true test of resilience and adaptability. Seriously. Picture this: you, your laptop, and a questionable amount of caffeine, forming an unholy trinity as you navigate the virtual maze of academia. Forget about the hallowed halls of knowledge; we're talking about conquering the Wild West of the web, the kingdom of online classes where the only dress code is "business on top, party down below." In this chronicle of academic survival, join me as we explore the peculiar journey of grad school during the pandemic – a saga filled with muted microphones, accidental screen shares of embarrassing desktop backgrounds, and the occasional existential crisis during a 2 AM submission deadline.
In this post, I will be sharing the hurdles faced during my graduate studies in counseling/clinical psychology amidst the pandemic and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. And if you too have ever found yourself questioning the legitimacy of your degree while surrounded by the comforting ambiance of your living room, this one's for you. So, grab your favorite mug (not judging what’s in it) because this is the caffeinated, unfiltered tale of eight personal grad school lessons learned during a pandemic – where Zoom fatigue is real, but so is our resilience!
1. Balancing Act: Juggling Studies, Internships, and Life all while shifting to classes online (initially my personal Hell)
Lessons Learned: Prioritize and Set Boundaries & Flexibility is Key
Graduate school demands a delicate balance between coursework, internships, sometimes (and in my personal case) full-time work, and personal life. I learned the importance of setting clear priorities and boundaries, allowing me to excel academically while still maintaining a semblance of work-life harmony. I also learned, sudden shift to virtual learning brought forth a myriad of challenges too, from technological hiccups to the absence of in-person interactions. Therefore I also learned to embrace flexibility, adapting my learning style, and finding creative ways to connect with professors and fellow students.
2. Telehealth Transition: Bridging the Gap in Clinical Practice & Bridging Theory and Real-World Application
Lessons Learned: Compassion Knows No Boundaries & Embrace the Learning Curve
Moving from in-person counseling sessions to telehealth presented a unique set of challenges. I discovered the power of compassion in bridging the gap between physical distances. The virtual realm didn't diminish the therapeutic connection; it merely shifted its form. This also opened my eyes to transitioning from theory to clinical practice can be overwhelming. I discovered the significance of embracing the learning curve, recognizing that each client interaction (via zoom or face to face) is an opportunity for growth. It's okay not to have all the answers, as long as you are committed to learning and adapting.
3. Client Diversity/Cultivating Cultural Competence & Empathy in Crisis: Navigating Clients Struggles Amidst a Global Crisis
Lesson Learned: Cultural Competence is a Lifelong Learning Process & Empathy is a Healing Balm
Encountering clients from diverse backgrounds emphasized the importance of cultural competence. I learned that cultivating an understanding of different cultural perspectives is an ongoing process, requiring humility, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to learning from each unique encounter. The pandemic also brought forth unprecedented mental health challenges for clients. From this, I learned that empathy is a potent healing balm, providing solace to individuals grappling with uncertainty, fear, and grief. Compassion became a cornerstone in navigating clients through these tumultuous times.
4. Self-Care in Crisis: Prioritizing Mental Well-being
Lesson Learned: Self-Care is Non-Negotiable
The pandemic underscored the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. I learned that practicing what I preach is essential – self-care is not an indulgence but a necessity, especially in times of crisis. Graduate school can be emotionally taxing. I discovered the importance of prioritizing self-care to prevent burnout. Whether it's engaging in hobbies, seeking supervision, or fostering a strong support network, self-care is a non-negotiable aspect of maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Especially when the world is essentially on fire.
5. Digital Boundaries: Balancing Professionalism in Virtual Spaces
Lesson Learned: Establish Clear Boundaries
Navigating the blurred lines between personal and professional life in virtual spaces required establishing clear boundaries (haha that’s why I had taken a three year hiatus from social media along with my six year hiatus from here) I learned that intentional delineation between work and personal spaces fosters a healthier balance and professional integrity.
6. Supervision Challenges: Embracing Constructive Feedback & Adapting to Remote Oversight
Lesson Learned: Feedback is a Catalyst for Growth & Technology is a Lifeline for Supervision
Supervision sessions, while at times challenging, became instrumental in my growth as a counselor. I embraced constructive feedback as a catalyst for improvement, recognizing that vulnerability and a willingness to learn enhance one's professional competence. Also, during these sometimes challenging sessions for me, remote supervision became a norm, and I discovered the importance of leveraging technology to maintain a strong connection with supervisors. Zoom proved to be valuable tools for constructive feedback and professional development (also it was a life line when I was having that aforementioned 2AM deadline existential crisis with my thesis).
7. Professional Ethics: Navigating the Ethical Maze & Advocacy in Crisis/Elevating the Role of Mental Health Professionals
Lesson Learned:Ethical Decision-Making is a Cornerstone
The pandemic emphasized the vital role of mental health professionals. I learned to advocate for the importance of mental health and destigmatize seeking support, recognizing that our profession plays a crucial part in the collective healing process. As a future counselor, ethical decision-making is paramount. I learned to navigate the ethical maze by prioritizing client welfare, seeking supervision when needed, and staying informed about ethical guidelines. Upholding professional integrity is non-negotiable.
8. Lifelong Learning: The End is Just the Beginning & Embracing an Unknown Future
Lesson Learned: Resilience is a Graduation Cap & View Graduation as a Starting Point
Graduating from graduate school doesn't mark the end of learning; it signifies a new beginning. I believe lifelong learning is inherent in the counseling profession. I approach each day as an opportunity to absorb new insights, refine skills, and deepen my understanding of the human experience. With this being said, ever-changing landscape of the pandemic taught me to embrace uncertainty and view adaptability as a superpower. I learned that, as a counselor, flexibility and the ability to thrive in ambiguity are essential qualities.
In closing for me, graduating amidst the challenges of the pandemic became a testament to resilience. I learned that challenges don't negate achievements; they amplify the strength and determination required to earn that degree, and graduation cap. As we navigate these uncharted waters, let these lessons serve as guiding lights for future counselors facing unprecedented challenges in the ever-evolving landscape of mental health. To my other pandemic graduate survivors, raise that coffee mug (regardless of what’s actually in it) for a well deserved cheers!
Were attending grad school or college during the abysmal COVID-19 years? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences down in the comments section! I’d also love to hear from new grad students as well.
Later babes!
Xx, Bree
