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 Jenessa Lombardi. Jenessa is a sophomore women's volleyball and women's lacrosse player at Bryn Athyn College.
1. How did you initially take the news that Bryn Athyn was going completely online for the spring trimester?
Initially, I was very worried about how classes were going to go. I wondered if being online would hinder my academics severely without the classroom environment. The news that Bryn Athyn was going completely online for the spring semester was chaotic. Word spread like wildfire on our small campus which made me anxious.
2. How have you adjusted to online learning?
It is still a daily struggle, but having a personal connection with teachers is super beneficial and comforting. My teachers set aside extra time before and after class for any questions, concerns, and an open space to talk about how we are doing. Emailing and Teams calls go a long way when both parties are willing to effectively communicate through collaboration.
3. What have you missed the most about being at Bryn Athyn?
I definitely miss my friends, especially my roommates, because they are sisters to me. I also miss playing lacrosse because learning a new sport was fun, brought me out of my comfort zone, and was a great way to stay in shape.
4. What have you been doing to remain active and healthy at home?
I have been running a mile every day as well as doing workouts from my coach and YouTube workouts! Eating healthy and washing my hands is definitely the key to staying healthy and safe from this pandemic.
5. What activities have you been doing at home to take your mind off of classes and being at home?
I have been spending a lot of time with family as well as going for walks with my dogs and running. To relax, I like to watch Netflix when my assignments are completed for the day.
6. How have you kept in contact with your teammates?
Texting daily as well as calling each other just to check up on each other is a great thing I like to do to show my teammates that I am still thinking about them and making sure they are adjusting. The volleyball team made a TikTok video social distancing and showing off our skills in a fun way.
7. How do you feel about having your season cut short by the pandemic?
I am definitely bummed that my season was cut short. I was asked by Coach Roessler to join the lacrosse team as the goalie. I was hesitant because volleyball is my number one sport and also because I had never played lacrosse before in my life. How could I pick up a sport everyone else has been playing for years? However, the girls on the team were super supportive by giving me tips and tricks and became another family to me. I am hoping to play again next spring!