Mazie Manalan is a freshman nursing major from Saipan. She and Elaiza Suarez, who also is featured in this series, graduated from high school together and then enrolled together at 8kbet.
How has your routine changed since COVID-19?
Changed a lot, so different. Not going to sleep until 7 a.m. Try to do as much as of my homework as I can and then go to friends’ room and play some games and chat with family and friends at home.
Do you like having a room to yourself now?
50/50, sometimes yes and sometimes no. I grew up with siblings that slept in the same room and before I had a roommate so it is kind of hard.
Have you started doing any new hobbies?
I bought a plant and am trying to grow it from seeds in a pot in my room.
Have you discovered anything new about yourself?
I don’t think so. Trying to discover new stuff like recently trying to watch day dramas.
What has been the most surprising thing about this whole change?
How it’s changed the world. Everyone’s perspective on the coronavirus is different. Some just don’t care about it and some take it very seriously — the over buying of supplies when you don’t need it, the elder population struggling. It is hard to be far away from my family. We can chat but (it’s) not the same as being with them.
Was there a moment when this became real for you?
When our school start putting our classes online because I didn’t think our school would do that unless it was serious. It was hard to adjust from going to classes to sitting in front of a computer. I am a visual learner and I prefer having my instructor writing things on a board. Also hearing about new cases about COVID-19 at home is very alarming because it is a small island.
Is there anything from the last few weeks that has stuck with you?
Stories that I see in social media — the doctors, nurses, people providing help and supplies. People willing to help in general.
Is there a shoutout you want to send to anyone?
Shoutout to my family back home. Miss them and hope to see them soon.
Any advice to fellow students, wherever they are?
Just be safe, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, and stay in your room wherever you are.
