When the College started to ramp down all non-essential work in mid-March, it set off a wave of panic within the Honours cohort. Students were understandably anxious that the 12-month program, designed to fine tune our technical skills and produce capable, independent researchers, would come to an early demise because of the impact of COVID-19.

However, over the past eight weeks, I have proudly watched as my peers have not only risen to the occasion, but created their own silver linings amidst the uncertainty.

By all objective measures, they have thrived. They are resilient in the face of setback, able to adapt and think on their feet. I have watched every one develop confidence, resilience and independence as researchers much earlier than anyone had anticipated. A special type of kinship blossomed as students leaned on one another for support and guidance. Through the act of isolation, we have come to appreciate the essential notion that we are all in this together.

More importantly, the opportunity to reflect upon the clinical problems our research aims to address has helped us return to the laboratories with a renewed sense of purpose. Distancing at home gave me an opportunity to share the passion I have for my own project with my family. Whilst they may not understand the scientific technicalities, their excitement for its potential impact reminded me of the bigger picture.

Caught up in the action of the everyday, we’re so quick to lose sight of our ‘why.’ Having the value of our work reflected back onto us is a timely reminder to take a step back every now and then and appreciate the small wins – for even the smallest steps are a step in the right direction.

Aasha’s Honours project is titled ‘The prognostic value of circRNAs in serum and tissue in prostate cancer’. Her supervisors are Associate Professor Luke Selth and Associate Professor Simon Conn.