Corona Diaries: "The Hope For A Better Tomorrow Keeps Me Going"

Each day is a new gift, that's why it's called the 'present'

https://www.wittenborg.eu/corona-diaries-hope-better-tomorrow-keeps-me-going.htm

Part of the world's social and economic life is gathering momentum as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes. For Oluwaseun Victor Ogunremi, his hope for a better tomorrow may just be around the corner.

This week's Corona Diaries series catches a glimpse of Oluwaseun's positive disposition as he shares his optimistic vibes with the world.

Hello Oluwaseun, can you tell us more about yourself?

I am an enthusiastic Nigerian, passionate about people, wellbeing, tech, healthcare, music and art. I have previous work experience in IT, communication and administration, but I am currently pursuing an MBA in Health and Social Care.

How have you kept in touch with your family back home?

I, like everyone else, have had to depend and leverage on technology, which has helped a great deal. Video calls have been a life saver and virtual meetings and interactions have become the new norm. We are getting more innovative even about virtual interactions.

Hope, faith and love fuel my positivity in life

Hope, faith and love. I see each day as a new gift, that is why it is called the 'present'. My optimistic disposition to life consistently gives my hope a leap and energises my faith for a better tomorrow, as long as I love people and my environment. These three fuel my positivity.

What are some of the changes you have had to make to your home life to accommodate studying from home?

I have had to learn and develop new habits and routines, e.g. workout and meal plans. There are no excuses for skipping and missing them. I also had to learn how to use calendars 'to do lists' and 'e-reminders' to better manage my time.

What do you like most about online learning?

One advantage is that I can get to watch and catch up with the class recordings again. I also feel that it is easier to share my thoughts during the online lessons and even my "silly" questions are responded to positively.

What do you like least about online learning?

For me, the online experience is not as interactive as a live classroom I have been used to. Lecturers try hard to figure out if everyone is clear about the lesson or is lost in the process. It gets challenging at times to concentrate, which is something the lecturers cannot see or feel and little things can easily distract me, as little as the smell of toast…

How are you spending your free time in self-isolation and have you developed any new hobbies?

I make music, write, compose and play the piano more. Home workout, music scores and interest in cybersecurity are a few things I can call my new-found hobbies lately.

What is something you now realise that you had taken for granted before the COVID-19 pandemic?

I realise that the value of friendship and fellowship is very crucial even for our mental-health. Meditation is also a tool every sound mind needs but hardly uses. This season presents more time to meditate, reflect and plan on any area of concern.

Do you have any plans for the summer?

I had earlier plans to visit other countries, but due to the current restrictions and situation, the plan needs to be re-evaluated. I have plans to do some trainings and certifications. I am also thinking about some volunteering efforts this summer.

And with such positive vibes and outlook in life, Wittenborg believes that Oluwaseun, as well as all students and staff, will welcome the summer with open arms and with a renewed hope that it will bring the sunshine back into our lives.