For my Spring project, I had originally intended on learning how to play a few songs on the piano. In my dorm there is a piano on the second floor and one of my friends had offered to teach me the basics of reading music and using the keys. I was so excited to start this project because I have never played an instrument before but have always wanted to learn piano. Then during my spring break, Ohio State announced that students would not be returning to campus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I was devastated that I had to pack up my dorm and resume classes online from my house.
My four younger siblings also had to resume their classes online and with both of my parents being essential healthcare workers, I became in charge of helping my siblings with their school work. I spent many hours helping the twins with their math homework. I taught them Algebra I and worked with them on their Kahn Academy assignments. I proofread English assignments for my youngest brother and helped the oldest brother with his senior thesis paper.
While helping with middle school and high school homework, I was also trying to balance my own college coursework. I struggled to find a quiet place to study in my loud and busy house. I typically stayed up late to finish my homework after my siblings had all gone to bed and my house had finally become quiet. Despite the challenges of spring semester, I finished with grades that I am proud of and my brother graduated high school, the twins graduated eighth grade, and my youngest brother completed seventh grade.
Without a piano, I was unable to complete the spring project I had planned and prepared for this semester. However, I was able to spend well over 10 hours helping my siblings earn amazing grades and succeed this semester despite all of the challenges we faced. I am proud of my siblings and thankful for all my parents have done during these hard times. I am hopeful that school will resume in the fall but if that is not possible, I am prepared to be a teacher, tutor, and student once again.