This last year has been educational both inside and outside of the lecture hall. Things started off great, I was enjoying my classes and extracurriculars. Science concepts I had learned began to combine in courses like biochemistry while others like anatomy and nutrition were pleasantly engaging. Then the pandemic arrived in March and the campus closed. As I returned home, the Vineyard’s social isolation was in full effect and the next weeks and months were - as I’m sure all can attest - shocking and strange. The knowledge I acquired these past years about diseases, community health risks and responses, controversial medical issues surrounding vaccines, etc. has been immensely insightful. Also, thanks to the real world experience of the pandemic during these last months, I’ve come to realize how challenging it can be to navigate biological and health-related ideas and issues. I can only now start to appreciate how these crucial fields are interconnected to socioeconomic and political factors and implications. From the disruption of work and schooling to mental weariness and stress caused by social isolation and quarantine, the pandemic’s effects are legion. Since I decided to stay home for the fall I’ve kept myself busy. While on the Vineyard, I’ve been working and volunteering for my local community. Although the summer was safe and productive, the new normal is here to stay, while we all cope with its challenges. On the other hand, I plan and am eager to return back to campus to finish my studies in 2021, hopefully leaving behind the abnormal circumstances that have marked 2020. Lastly, I’d like to thank MVYouth for its support, including all those who contribute to MVYouth’s projects. May it continue its great work for the Vineyard and its residents.