Ned, please make a declassified Blackboard survival guide. We need you.

It’s been two months since Humber and UofGH’s mostly remote Fall 2020 semester started, and I’m having…a time.

Don’t get me wrong, there are certainly some upsides to attending school online. But, if I’m being honest, most days I feel like the inside of Spongebob’s brain that time he forgot his name.

Spongebob Squarepants GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY

The toughest thing about online learning is not having anyone to share the stress with. I know I’m not the only one who had different expectations for this semester, but it’s easy to feel that way when the only person I talk to IRL is the Uber Eats delivery person.

So, I decided to share the stress with you. Whether you need to be reassured you’re not the only one struggling, or whether you just need a good laugh, here’s how I thought this semester would go versus what actually happened:

Expectation

I’ll rock a killer outfit everyday! It doesn’t matter if no one will see. If I dress to impress, I’ll have success.

Gabby wears a grey pantsuit with her hands on her hips.
Oh, sorry, didn’t see you there. Just casually waiting for my Blackboard Collaborate session to start.

Reality

I’ve been in this same joggers/flannel combo for three days. But, like, it’s not pyjamas, so…that’s a win.

Gabby wears joggers and a flannel and makes a peace sign.

Expectation

I’ll set up a cute little workspace in my living room, complete with decorations and motivational quotes! That way, I’ll have a clear separation between my school life and my personal life.

I mean, who wouldn’t want to work here?

Reality

My bed can be a desk, if I just ~BeLiEvE~.

Gabby works in bed with a hoodie pulled tight around her face.
Beat THIS, Pinterest.

Expectation

I’ll have so much more time! No commute, no awkward break times – maybe I’ll pick up a hobby!

Two potted succulents with the caption, “I’m a plant mom now.”

Reality

Every teacher, at once: “Here is nineteen times more homework than usual! Xoxo, love u.”

A loaded weekly schedule.
RIP plant children.

Expectation

Not having to be in class means I can work on my own schedule! I can get my assignments done in the morning, work in the afternoon and have my evenings free to do fun things, like make s’mores nachos.

A tray of s’mores nachos.
My tummy’s rumbling just looking at ‘em.

Reality

Please, please, no more group projects with people in different time zones. I didn’t know you could get jet-lagged without leaving your house.

Gabby at 1:20 a.m. with the caption, “Jumping on another Zoom.”

Expectation

I’ll miss socializing on campus, but that’s OK! I’ll attend IGNITE’s online events and workshops to meet new people.

Nice To Meet You Together Alone GIF by megan motown - Find & Share on GIPHY

Reality

Actually, this one’s true.

A lot has changed this semester. One thing that’ll never change is IGNITE’s commitment to making your school year the best it can be, no matter what. Right now, that means organizing virtual events to help preserve your mental health and secure your professional success, like our upcoming Real Talks featuring Justin Kan and Tyler Oakley.

Let the reality of this semester exceed your expectations. Put aside the notebooks, press “pause” on the lecture, and prioritize you.

Zoom class got you feeling like a zombie? Zero in on your zeal with IGNITE’s Career Success Real Talks featuring Tyler Oakley and Justin Kan!

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