Happy Thanksgiving! Let’s be honest- 2020 sucked. The highlights of the year were a global pandemic (which is still raging), politics and record breaking natural disasters- not exactly things to be thankful for.

However, it isn’t all doom and gloom. I’ve found lots of things to be thankful for. Here are the top 5

1. My family and I are healthy financially stable– Usually, I throw this one at the end, but not this year. Not only have we managed to stay healthy throughout the entire ordeal, my parents put their work aside to be with my brother and I. I am so thankful and my heart goes out to anyone who’s struggled or is struggling.
2. My Professors– Classes this semester have been considerably more difficult both in terms of content and well…. you know…. However, my professors make me genuinely excited to log into Zoom. Special shout out to my differential equations professor. He completely changed my attitude towards math. My Econ professor also deserves a shoutout. I have never met a teacher/professor so understanding and tolerant of me 😉
3. My Research Advisor- Last semester, I had the privilege of working in Professor Loewenstein’s lab. This year, I decided to start my own project. Usually, looking for an advisor as an undergrad is a lengthy process. Most professors have their hands full with their own research and that of grad students. Well, the research gods blessed me on this one. My advisor got back to me within 3 days, and agreed to work with me despite recovering from major surgery, having a full roster of grad students AND a full teaching schedule. He’s also just an amazing person. Our meetings last 90 minutes, 40 of which are occupied by discussion of cats and Chinese culture 🙂 I cannot thank him enough for his generosity with his time.
4. My Classmates- Remote learning makes connecting with and working with classmates difficult. My classmates really made what could have been a frustrating experience a thoroughly enjoyable one. For the first time, I felt like I could really trust my project groups. Never once did I worry about not completing tasks on time.
5. Technology- Imagine 2020 without Zoom, Streaming services or Instacart…. enough said 😉

What are you thankful for?

I wish everyone a happy, healthy Thanksgiving! Let’s end the year strong!

Until next time, bye!

• Travel