COVID-19 affected/affects all of us in some ways. Could have been socially, professionally or academically. It might seem daunting to ask for help, but believe me, there are many options.
For personal reasons, I had to leave Leiden early in March, when the university was still open, and classes were still going on as usual. I thought I had to re-take the whole 2nd year of Psychology the following year. I still had mandatory classes, assignments and presentations I didn’t finish. The idea of graduating later crushed me. However, to my surprise, everything turned out just fine. I am doing my 3rd year right now, I managed to finish all the courses and got all my credits. So how did it happen?
I asked for help.
Leiden University really stepped up and my professors were extremely understanding. There are a few steps you could take if COVID-19 is affecting you academically:
I had professors and tutors who allowed me to hand in the assignments that I missed as a re-sit, who agreed that I could join in another presentation group or who proposed an alternative online essay that was originally meant to be an in-class project.
There are many people you can count on in these difficult times. I had/have a very positive experience in getting help from various sources at Leiden University. No one wants you to fail and no one wants you to give up your studies, especially when there might be a solution for making up for the course assignments. Especially when there is a global pandemic going on.
I hope this post is helpful for you, and good luck with your studies!