This semester has been challenging for everyone but we cannot deny how much we have learned from this unforgettable experience. In this time of social/physical distancing and with yet another semester soon coming to an end, we caught-up with some Pekingers to learn about how this online semester has been for them.

Chia Chia is taking 9 classes, totaling 24 academic credits this semester, and she defines the semester as "hectic". The biggest challenge for her was to adapt to online lessons, as opposed to traditional learning in a classroom. She further explains, "I personally find it difficult to remain absolutely focused and ensure effective learning during the circuit breaker, with the emotional distress and distractions around amid the pandemic."

However, she found that it had allowed her to recognize the importance of finding one's own methods and pace in life, "It has also given us an opportunity to pick up things which we may have dropped or forgotten along the way, and find back what we truly love and enjoy."

Photo of Chia Chia doing a split

"I managed to get back to dancing which I did from kindergarten till high school!"

Being asked whether there's anything else to be shared with us, Chia Chia expressed that she would love to take this opportunity to express her gratitude and appreciation to the professors who have gone out of their way to make sure the quality of learning for students is up to standard and spending an extensive amount of time outside of classes to respond to the student's queries.

Billy describes this semester as "sensational". With 8 courses and 23 credits in total, the biggest challenge for him was having to maintain the same level of energy and composure throughout the semester. Despite this challenge, he learned a lot. He not only gained a lot of academic knowledge but also learned a lot about himself. Finally, this semester has become an unforgettable memory and experience for Billy.

Billy started his first week of online classes

Learning how to handstand, practicing juggling, finishing 32 books out of his annual target of 80 books, if there is one-word Tommy would describe this semester, it would be "routine". With 8 classes and two in English, Tommy has been making an effort to stay in a routine "without falling into a rut" this semester. However, this is not without challenges, which for this semester he says is the absolute lack of companionship. Tommy explains that he is as productive (or unproductive) at home as he is on campus. Socializing is an integral part of his campus life, and he misses it the most.

Tommy manages to multitask during one of his online class

Nevertheless, he is grateful to be able to study in the comfort of being at home because there are much worse issues in other parts of the world Tommy thinks it is quite astonishing that online platforms have enabled the continuation of education for so many students around the world. However, it has also shown some inefficiencies in education and in working and studying remotely. He looks forward to the future development of the education sector.

Rossukon has taken 8 classes this semester. Currently at home in Thailand, the epidemic has compelled her to stay home due to restrictions on movement and pressure from assignment. Living with her family has made her miss having her own space in Beijing in her dorm. She explains that it has been a messy semester with many distractions that made it challenging for her to focus on her assignments. However, she also realized that online classes have impacted her self-discipline, and encouraged her to improve her time-management skills. Despite the distraction at home, there is also comfort in being able to snack and attend classes from the comfort of her bed. As the semester is coming to an end, she sometimes hopes she can continue to take some of these relaxing online courses.

Rossukon preparing to present in in Classin

It has been an unexpected semester for Zhang Qi who was initially excited for a semester abroad at Taiwan University. Zhang eventually had to change his plans for the semester abroad and rearrange his schedule. Two classes Hydrogeology and Related Geophysical Processes and College admissions selection – focus on United States have taken up his semester. He is taking an interesting mix of classes with the former one being part of his major where he learns to examine the effect of ground water on geophysical events and activities; the latter one is a liberal studies course based on personal interest which focuses on exploring the admission policies of American universities through history. In this semester, the biggest challenge for Zhang has been adjusting his study plan and developing suitable living habits at home. Zhang Qi explains "It's quite challenging for me to manage my time and improve efficiency when there are so many distractions and daily chores."

Zhang Qi at his PKU dorm room

On a more positive note, he learned a lot from the two online courses this semester. This was an opportunity for Zhang to foster his ability to adapt to a new, uncertain environment, and most importantly, he learned to know himself and remain humble. Zhang Qi believes that online classes have both advantages and drawbacks. He believes that it is a "convenient, accessible and practical alternative for continuing the semester safely".

To him, it's beneficial for the morning courses because he can get online in time for class without rushing his breakfast. He can also watch the recordings of the class from weeks ago if he wishes to review the content or if he missed any information. However, the negative aspects lie in that they don't provide as efficient a learning environment, and don't allow for as much interaction. Zhang thinks it is also easier to lose concentration during class, especially due to unstable internet connections or technical issues.

Juliëtte Eijkelkamp