It’s funny how a deadly pandemic causing trouble around the world came to change my life for the better.
Before the coronavirus, I was lost. I had too much going on in my life and I could barely keep up with my meals.
As a full-time undergraduate student with two part-time jobs on the side, this semester has not been easy at all. I struggled between learning a third language and adapting to a new work environment all at once.
American Sign Language has been one of my greatest obstacles so far this year.
Nevertheless, I’ve committed to learning the language ever since I had my first deaf customer at CVS Pharmacy, where I work part time as a shift manager.
I started working at CVS Pharmacy when I moved back to Edinburg from Brownsville.
I have also been working at the university’s newspaper as a sports reporter for almost a year now, which has been one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve had.
I’ve gotten to meet a lot of interesting people with many different and unique hobbies, along with great mentors.
I’ve been living on my own for two years and counting, and to be honest, I have yet to fill this vacancy in my life.
Moving out from a Hispanic home was challenging since I had a strong bond with both my parents.
As an only child, I relied on them for shelter, food and support.
Yet, when I moved out, I realized how much their absence really affected my work and education.
Sometimes I would miss assignments or quizzes because I thought I would get out from work a little too late or tired, but I now realize that I didn’t have anyone to remind me to do it.
It was time to grow up. I depended too much on my parents for me to even think straight.
That is when the coronavirus emerged in the United States, specifically in Texas.
Before the pandemic, my daily routine consisted of work, school, work, sleep and repeat for at least five to six days a week.
Who knew that a pandemic would come to turn my life around?
With the transition to online classes due to the pandemic, it has become a lot easier to manage my time.
At CVS Pharmacy, we continue to serve our community, which makes me feel essential now more than ever.
Also, my part-time job as a sports reporter has become a lot lighter since most of my interviews are conducted through the phone.
I’m fortunate to work at both a university and a pharmacy, since they are one of the few places that are still allowed to be open. Which allows me to keep working without affecting my income.
Now, I even have extra time to work out and do activities, which I hadn’t had the time or energy to do before.
I’ve filled the empty space within me with worth.
My life has turned around for the better and it all started with the coronavirus.
