Bryn Athyn College is doing a check-in series with its student-athletes to see how they are adjusting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today's featured student-athlete is Kaile Soulsby. Kalie is a freshman women's soccer and women's basketball player at Bryn Athyn College.
1. How did you initially take the news that Bryn Athyn was going completely online for the spring trimester?
At first, it was all so crazy. I didn't understand how this was going to work especially being an education major and having classes where I would be attending other schools. I was initially upset with the change due to being more of a face-to-face, hands-on learner. Also, I was devastated by leaving my teammates, friends, and roommate.
2. How have you adjusted to online learning?
I have definitely adjusted and learned how to time manage with online learning. In the beginning, you find it a little weird to just be over a screen and deal with technical difficulties. Now, it is beginning to run smoothly.
3. What have you missed the most about being at Bryn Athyn?
The things I miss most about Bryn Athyn are my friends and teammates. Having the ability to constantly be surrounded by your friends and teammates at college is definitely of my favorite things. Either walk down the dorm hallway or across to one of the suites, they were always right there. I also miss my roommate; it was like having a best friend sleepover every night.
4. What have you been doing to remain active and healthy at home?
To remain active and healthy, I have been walking my two rambunctious dogs and taking them to the park. As remaining in contact with my sports, I make sure I find time to go to a net in my development or a soccer field in the park to continue keeping my skills fresh. As gyms are closed, I have created my fitness workout plan in my garage.
5. What activities have you been doing at home to take your mind off of classes and being at home?
Being away from friends and family especially during holidays has been difficult. So, I have been having a lot of virtual meetings with my loved ones to keep in touch. My family has made every Friday game or movie night at my house. I have been trying out new recipes and beginning new crafts, like painting a window in my house.
6. How have you kept in contact with your teammates?
Keeping in contact with my teammates has been super easy due to cellphones and social media. I don't think one day goes by without both group chats both being active and still sharing the same laughs we would at practice or school. It is hard only having digital contact with my teammates rather than being able to bond but we have found ways to bond. For example, my basketball team meets every Friday at 4 on Zoom with Dr. Kelly Ballard and we all catch up and share crazy stories. My soccer team has taken part in a social distancing challenge where we each took a video of ourselves juggling a soccer ball and passing it to each other through video connecting.