Anura Sharma is a junior at Columbia Heights Educational Campus (CHEC). She participated in the American Experience Foundation (AEF)'s virtual summer internship program, where she interacted with hospitality leaders and presented a final project on her approach to rebuilding the industry post-pandemic.
"When COVID-19 began spreading quickly around the world, I went from switching to different classrooms at the sound of a bell to switching between meetings on Zoom and Microsoft Teams. This experience has drastically changed my high school experience. While my environment is ever-changing, I have strengthened my resilience, patience and time management skills."
Much like other schools, CHEC converted to online learning. Anura had difficulty adjusting to being in front of a screen all day, a significant change from socializing with peers and faculty between classes. However, as time went on and schools improved their online presence, Anura felt better prepared for the virtual fall semester.
Anura says, "my teachers were understanding and supported me every step of the way." Local schools developed ways to creatively engage with students by using social media platforms.
Next month, AEF will resume the popular Wednesday Hospitality Club. Follow along with the club’s guest speakers and student reactions on LinkedIn.
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