Half-Way from Home: An Autoethnography of Being a Locally Stranded Student during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Quarantine measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 resulted in millions of Filipinos getting stranded. Using autoethnography, this paper is a layered account of my experience as a locally stranded individual, particularly how I coped and used certain privileges to get out from such a dreadful experience. I conveyed my story by also incorporating different voices through related literature and interviews of other stranded students. My journey begins with downplaying the pandemic's severity to coming to terms with my vulnerability at that time. Being stranded is akin to being stuck in limbo, overcoming the obstacles and challenges to get home, and realizing the importance of privilege in times of hardship. The coping strategies used while stranded reflect the distinct Filipino ways of coping, such as bayanihan, pag-tiis, and utang na loob. Writing this autoethnography has proven therapeutic and allowed me to see my experience in a wider context.