The COVID-19 pandemic we have undergone has hit us unexpectedly and has affected our lives one way or another, requiring us to readapt in order to coexist with this virus. My name is Gabriel de la Hoz Ruiz, and I recently completed my research work for my Master’s Degree with Dr. Manojkumar Arthikala in the unit ENES-UNAM under the joint degree program between Spain and Mexico. I am currently doing paperwork to defend my thesis. During the pandemic, the entire administrative process slowed down, although all academic activities are being held in their regular fashion, so there has been no need to put them off. Research has continued, always respecting safety guidelines, helping us acquire more and more knowledge on the agro-genomic area. At a personal level, my lifestyle has changed very much. Family time has been cut down as much as possible in order to avoid risks of infection and due to local mobility restrictions. My social life has also been affected, since there is a feeling of insecurity towards the health situation of others regarding COVID-19. This produces a sense of monotony in me since social interaction is so important to me.

However, confinement has led to greater social connectivity and greater unity in the family via digital media, which have helped make up for social distance and the lack of our loved ones. Through these media, we have had the emotional support of our families when we need them the most. In conclusion, we are adapting in all spheres of life in the best way possible, proving that, as a society, we can continue having academic and work lives with the greatest normality possible to continue with our personal growth, but with the adequate protection and responsibility of looking after the health of those around us.