My lockdown routine

Posted on: 6 May 2020 in Student experiences

My name is Olayinka. I am from Nigeria and currently on an MSc Operation and Supply Chain Management programme at University of Liverpool.

The start of the lockdown and social distancing was a bit demoralising and frustrating for me, I had been looking forward to spring and summer after becoming accustomed to rainy days since I arrived in the UK in September. Also, the thought of not seeing friends, the ULMS “Leaders of Tomorrow” career trek trip being cancelled and other uncertainties made life difficult for me.

But it's not all bad, I am glad I have my assignments and a part-time job as an International Student Ambassador to keep me busy! As part of the Student Ambassador programme, I have been involved in a connect campaign for incoming international students and it's been fun chatting about life as a student in Liverpool with prospective students. Being proactive and meeting new people virtually has kept me going.

My days got a lot better and brighter when I started working to a new daily routine. I wake by 5:30am to mediate, 6:30am-7:30am I go for a run and by 10;00am, I start working on my projects or responding to students on the connect campaign. I've recently added some movie time, social media, LinkedIn Learning and family calls to my routine. Building in time to learn and to socialise is important to me.

In addition, I take time to do some positive talking and motivation to other students in similar situations, both in the UK and other countries, to remind them that there's light at the end of the tunnel. The Leaders of Tomorrow online session delivered by ULMS is another highlight of my day at home - my day ends up eventful after all of these activities. 

Initially, I felt sad about sitting at home in isolation, but now I feel glad that my resilience and self-motivating skills have been tested and that I'm getting through this thanks to my routine. I have made some meaningful connections on LinkedIn, caught up on my work, made time for physical and spiritual wellbeing, learned new skills, and undertaken some research.

Special thanks to the lecturers of Operations and Supply Chain Management, Careers & Employability Team, and the University of Liverpool overall for providing much needed support in these uncertain times.