“I am learning to truly live by my philosophies of ‘living a life with a little regret as possible’ and ‘Transitions are about exploring the possibilities, opportunities, and taking a risk.'”
Where exactly are you living? Is this where you permanently reside or is it a temporary living situation due to the pandemic?
“Currently, I live and work in Dhaka, Bangladesh. I reside here as my residence outside the US at this time because of my career in international higher education.”
What has your community been doing differently that you think impacted the rate of transmission?
“I am not sure I have a response to this question… As a country, Bangladesh is implementing the recommended strategies. Like many other places, there is a shortage of supplies such as PPE, the appropriate medical equipment, testing supplies as well as health care personnel.
What is occurring is the population is being resourceful in making its own hand rub, mask, disinfection spray, and more. The garment industry here is making some PPE for local and international use. Initially, we had a shortage of supplies for masks and hand sanitizer, but those have been fixed during the past three months.”
What has been your daily routine so far during the pandemic?
“I have been at home since March 26 and unsure of when our educational institution will reopen. I work in higher education as an administrator. I work in student life, providing leadership development, activities, and administrative support for college students. I have been working remotely, doing house chores, connecting with others (family, friends, acquaintances, and other expats virtually).
I have done some movie watching, but spending a bit more writing for my blog as well as managing my virtual company, Roseapple Global, on weekends. I am an expat career strategist who helps career professionals in the education sector plan and prepare for a transition abroad.”
“Whether it is these current uncertain times or one that might occur in the future, I know that you have the inner strength and coping skills to make it through. Making through one difficult situation equipped you for the next, and your resilience grows.”
Has this travel ban/quarantine situation impacted any important plans you had laid out for the near future?
“Yes, I missed attending two conferences in March 2020. The first in Bangkok, where I was part of a team presenting a session. The second in the US for which I was co-presenting two sessions, a panelist, and the yearly opportunity to connect with colleagues from all parts of the globe.
I also typically extend my stateside trip to see family. I had no personal travel plans that were disrupted. I am hoping that I can travel later in the year in December for the holiday season.”
Is there anything you feel that this experience has taught you that you’d like to share as inspiration for everyone going through this together?
“It has reminded me of my resilience and ability to thrive during challenges. I have been able to draw strength from past experiences of isolation, whether it was the place I lived or the circumstance of life during a given time.
I am learning to truly live by my philosophies of ‘living a life with a little regret as possible’ and ‘Transitions are about exploring the possibilities, opportunities, and taking a risk.’
Whether it is these current uncertain times or one that might occur in the future, I know that you have the inner strength and coping skills to make it through. Making through one difficult situation equipped you for the next, and your resilience grows.”
Anything else you’d like to share?
“It is a challenging time for all, being abroad and away from family or any immediate support makes it a bit harder. However, I am thankful for past experiences, such as being a location independent digital entrepreneur in SE Asia for the 7.5 months prior to moving here. The digital nomad experience plus living/working in Kabul has built my resilience to manage this situation.”
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