What it's like to move to Sheffield - in a global pandemic

I had come to the UK from Lagos and booked two separate accommodations in the city, one at Rotherham S61 while the other was in S37. The best option for me was the one in S37 due to proximity to the University, so I moved in.

Having obtained an undergraduate degree in Mass Communication about a decade ago, I was buzzing to enjoy the four walls of the university again. But bookings for physical classroom sessions were no longer available to students as online classes had been introduced which would include both seminars and drop-in sessions.

The lockdown had become tighter but thankfully, major stores were opened for grocery shopping needs, hence, I could easily stock up. The virus has so far killed more than a 100,000 people in the United Kingdom! Having to deal with that alone can be draining. Classes have begun, and it has been interesting, although it would have been better off physically as some of the courses have been moved until it is okay to meet one-on-one again. The University has kept students abreast with daily changes and situation reports as things unfold.

Before making the trip to Sheffield, I had learned about beautiful and interesting sites to visit in the city most of which are not open or are deserted for the time being. The two Stadiums in Sheffield; Bramall Lane, the home of Premiership side Sheffield United as well as Hillsborough Stadium where the Owls (Sheffield Wednesday) perch would have been my first point of call even though I follow the teams passively. Stadium experiences are not the same, it varies by teams and cultures. Also on my list are Sheffield Winter Garden, Botanical Garden, Crucible Theatre among others.

Thank goodness, there are no limits to how often one can visit the parks to run, exercise, and catch some air alone. I have been a regular caller at the park close to where I reside, Weston Park. It is a beautiful site to take a walk.

When normality returns, I hope to have satisfied as much as required for my academics while also able to integrate into the society and adapt. Not forgetting to explore the best places in Sheffield.