Final Thoughts: Next Plan Paper. History Assignment.

Hi Class,
Thanks you very much for participating in our class during this challenging time. Now it is our final. Considering what has happened in the last two months, our final paper will be a little bit unusual too.
Here is our topic:
Write about the plan about your life and career at this moment of uncertainty. Think about if history provides any help for you to figure out this issue. I would suggest at least three dimensions for our discussion.
First, the pandemic itself. How should you weather through this terrible season? We read a lot of history about pandemics and quarantine. Now our country is debating about re-opening. What is your best strategy to go on with your life and study in the current situation?
Second, your education. We were not only forced into online learning, but also don’t even know what is going to happen next. I include a few articles about college crisis. We don’t know even if the school will be open next semester, or if it is going to shift to online courses entirely. Obviously, everyone needs some re-planning. What would you plan for your college education?
Third, the recession and your job. We are entering a deep recession for sure. The only question is how bad it is going to be. Even after the recession, our economy is more likely to be profoundly transformed. Some non-essential business may become permanently non-essential. How should you prepare for this?
I, as a faculty member, have to deal with the above three questions too. People used to believe that a tenured faculty enjoys a life-time employment. It is no longer true. I expect a tsunami in higher education in coming years. Luckily enough, with some visions as a historian, I have been thinking about those issues for a long time, so I am prepared for it. This is the moment to put our historical learning into practical use.
The final paper is optional. This is very unusual. But I understand that some students may face very big challenges and be under a lot of stresses. I don’t want to put additional burden on you. If you skip the final paper, it would not influence your standing in any negative way. But for someone who did not do well before the Spring Break and try to catch up, this paper may influence your final grade positively. A few students had already consulted with me about their study and career plans. I thought it would be a good idea to share your discussion with the class. Again, it is still your call.
I would start a new thread on our discussion board, “the final thoughts.” If you do want to write the final, please post it under this new thread. You have a week to finish it. And I would share my final thought with you. Hope you treat our class as a supporting group to help you coping with the current challenge.
Thanks again for your effort, participation, and understanding,