Today we looked back at 2020. We reflected on how this year has been; what new things came into our life; what did we miss the most; and many more.
Thank you, Negar and Laura, for sharing your wonderful thoughts and experience. đđ¤ And sorry that it in some way was like interviewing you both. đBut was worth it.
And thank you for letting me share your experiences here. Maybe we find some similarities in our experiences as well. Maybe some of us have painting interest, patience and skill like Negar or maybe we have different set of skills. đ¤
You can read what Negar and Laura shared a few things about 2020 below.
Laura: I came in March this year; a week after that there was lockdown. It was very difficult. But luckily, I have some friends here whom I met during my study at TU/e few years ago. They helped to connect and even find an apartment. Even when we were moving from our short-term apartment to this apartment, our friends helped us in moving. Movers gave some excuses in not being able to help.
During the lockdown before I found a job, I was cooking a lot. We were transitioning to a new diet. And used to go running, was training for Eindhoven Marathon. I missed my friends back home who are like my sisters. I used to talk to Carola and ask about the news, what would happen and so. Through her I knew about the listening line started by TU/e students to connect with people. There were some sad stories but listening to others was helpful in understanding how others were going through; listening to others helps. It was anonymous but gave a sense of reality. Without technology, it would not have been possible.
In 2020, I accomplished a few things. We bought a house and are going to move next year. I took driving lessons and got my driverâs license. Well, I would say no time was wasted.
During the pandemic, having online meetups helped get connected. It is easier to connect. I can attend GiT in between my work.
Next year, when we can travel, I would like to go to Spain. Mostly because of the language and for running.
Negar: Due to the lockdown I missed my family even more. It is the first time I am far away from them for a year now. And during lockdown, few things changed. When I first came to Eindhoven, I wanted to continue my education. But when lockdown happened, I started to paint. It was a good experience. Initially I thought I would do PhD in Physics. But later on, I didnât feel so good about it. I changed my plan, started learning python. But since I like creativity and design, my husband suggested me to go for Web Designing. So, I started learning programming. A new journey started.
I remember going to a beach in summer. It was the most memorable moment for me from this year. I occupied myself by painting in initial phase of lockdown. Now I am learning programming. I watch movie every day. I donât go out often unless I have to buy something. When I go shopping, I combine walk and shopping.
Meeting online is really helpful in not feeling alone. I could share my thoughts and what I did. Especially during this time, online meetup is helpful.
Next year, when we can travel, I would first like to visit my family in Iran. Then I want to go to Italy, maybe to Rome and beach.
