Expect the Unexpected
By Jamiah B
This is a podcast created in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. And its aim is to help you, and me, get through this difficult time with shared stories and information from experts about self care.
Expect the UnexpectedApr 15, 2020
Learning from the Unexpected
We can learn something from everything is one of the many lessons that I have learned from my dad over the years and something that many of us have probably learned as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. On this episode, Sofi Ibrahim, master’s student receiving her degree in conflict analysis and resolution, talks about some unexpected situations she has encountered as an international student pursuing higher education in the United States and what she has learned from it.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of JCI Foundation,Create Imperfect, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
Finishing College During a Pandemic: What It's Like and How We Can Respond
The last semester of college can be exciting, stressful, nerve-racking and celebratory - all at the same time. It is a time when students are enjoying traditional college events for the last time - spring break, spring weekend, late night study sessions, and graduation. It is also a time when they are trying to figure out what comes next. Will they apply for master’s programs? Will they apply for jobs? Will they take a year off? Now imagine experiencing that during the COVID-19 pandemic. On this episode, Olivia Barbieri, senior at Boston College, talks about what it can be like to finish college during a pandemic that has affected so many aspects of life. Danielle Gertner, ownership coach with former partnerships with Under Armor and PopSugar, talks with us about the power of our thoughts, especially in times of change as we overcome obstacles and enter a new chapter of our lives.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of OWN, NPR, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
Stories from Providers on the Frontlines
While many people are working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students and professionals continue to physically go into work to help as many people as possible stay as healthy as possible. In this episode, Emily Zimmer and Niki Meka, juniors at the University of Connecticut and medical care providers, talk about what it is like to work on the frontlines during this major outbreak. Dr. Keona Thompson talks about how medical professionals are trying to relay accurate information regarding the virus out to the public. All three guests give tips on self care specifically for medical students and professionals but that anyone can practice.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of The Atlantic, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
How are We Showing Up on Social Media?
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the use of social media to communicate and build community. In this episode, Jasmine Meriweather, junior at Belmont University and social media influencer by the name of @stayclassybyjazzy, talks about the importance of continuing to show up on social media and the challenges of doing so. Sarah Gaines, self-care professional and social media influencer by the name of @sarahjgaines, talks about the importance of showing up for yourself in order to show up for others to build a healthy online community.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of TEDTalk, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
The Impact of University Closings on Student Housing and Employment
Universities around the country and world have closed many of their normal operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including on-campus housing and jobs. In this episode, Amber Smith, senior at the University of Connecticut, talks about how the closure of on-campus housing and jobs can affect college students. Sandra Chang uses her background in sociology and human services, as well as her knowledge as a higher educational professional, to talk about how these closures can affect college students but also why universities are making the decisions they are. Both guests give advice to students who may be experiencing this predicament.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of the University of Connecticut, ABC10News San Diego, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
3 Keys to Building BRAVE Spaces in Relationships
Building and maintaining relationships can be challenging, especially during a pandemic. Meaghan Davis, a United State of Women Ambassador and entrepreneur, believes brave spaces can make all the difference in sustaining our relationships. In this episode, we discuss what a brave space is and 3 ways we can all introduce it into the relationships we have.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of Red Table Talk, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
It Doesn't Have to be Goodbye
After weeks away from traditional university life, college students are eager to see their peers in-person again. Many college seniors have come to realize they had some of their last moments with friends at their school, as students. In this episode, Barbara Shehata, senior at the University of Connecticut, talks about how many of us were not ready for the COVID-19 pandemic and how it's abruptly ended so many parts of our lives as we knew it. But, we can still maintain our relationships with friends beyond the confines of our school's campus.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of watchwellcast, Brianna Kristelle, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.
So...What's this About?
Well, I am glad you asked! I invite you to listen to this brief introduction to Expect the Unexpected. In this trailer, you will learn about what inspired me to start the podcast, what topics will be discussed, and how you can get involved.
Sound bites for this episode courtesy of NECN, WFSB 3 Eyewitness News, Borrtex, and Zapsplat.