I Survived First Year in a Pandemic: Medical Sciences at Western University

Lori Lai
2 min readMay 15, 2021

What to expect going into your first year at Western University during a global pandemic — advice and stories from the perspective of someone who’s gotten through it.

What a year. I simultaneously felt like I was being dragged underwater while on the most exciting roller coaster of my life — but before I knew it, the year was over. You might be in a similar position I was in several months ago. Excited for this new chapter of your life, but anxious about all the changes you’re about to go through.

Firstly, congratulations on getting accepted! Pat yourself on the back for the hard work you’ve completed thus far. Now, it’s a no-brainer that the transition to university is going to be tough. Last year, I underestimated how difficult the transition to a virtual classroom with the academic vigour of university would be. There were no upper-year mentors with first-hand experience to give me advice for the crazy new situation I would enter come September, so I hope I can be that for you. My name is Lori Lai, and I’m here to provide perspective, advice, and my personal experiences studying First Year Medical Sciences at Western University during a Pandemic.

I’ve broken down my experience into three sections: What To Expect in Your Five Online Courses, Strategies for Academic Success, and how Covid-19 affected Campus Life. Here, I outline my experiences and tips pertaining to study habits, resources, ways to get involved, and more! The articles below will help YOU get through your first year at Western University studying Medical/General Sciences successfully.

Browse the links below to learn more!

I Survived First Year in a Pandemic: Medical Sciences at Western — What To Expect in Your Five Online Courses

I Survived First Year in a Pandemic: Medical Sciences at Western — Strategies for Academic Success

I Survived First Year in a Pandemic: Medical Sciences at Western — How COVID-19 Affected Campus Life

You’re about to embark on an exciting, busy, and at times exhausting, journey. I encourage you to share these articles with any friends/peers/family who are approaching First Year and may find these tips helpful.

Thanks for reading! I have faith you will do great things this year. Best of luck new Frosh!

- Lori Lai

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