Together
while a p a r t
Alumnae Stories jessica klein
Class of 2006
Architect Jessica Klein was locked down in London and tells of the support she found in both her local and Marymount community. “As an architect’s firm, moving to working from home was quite simple, yet there were still some bumps! Modern houses are not usually designed to accommodate offices: I haven’t had a desk at home since I graduated. Many of my colleagues not only brought their computers home, but also their desks and chairs! Nevertheless, we are lucky to be in a profession where we can stay at home and stay safe. “This summer, my fiancé and I were due to be married, so that’s been the biggest single impact on my plans for this year. Everything was organised, so fortunately all we have had to do is push it back a year so that our families can all celebrate together. “The most important change to my day-to-day life has been the explosion in community support and communications in my local area. Right at the beginning of lockdown, I put posters around my block advertising my number to start a WhatsApp community group chat. I initially thought no one would join, and that I would be labelled as “the crazy neighbour”. I was pleasantly surprised to see lots of new numbers ping up on my app! “It’s worked extremely well: for example, someone living in our building is being “shielded” which means she should not leave her house for 12 weeks, not even to go to the bin storage. The group came together and we now pick up her rubbish from her door to bin it. We also use it to trade goods within the block, from tomato plants to herbs people are growing in the garden etc. I am sure that the WhatsApp group will be maintained and it has allowed us to finally get to know our neighbours. “My parents have also stepped up: they are now in charge of watering the public flowers in Wimbledon Village. “I talk to my Marymount friends all the time; it’s great to know that we are all thinking of one another and checking in.”
10
g a r i n e h a ro u to u n i a n
Class of 1984
Working on the frontline, Garine Haroutounian (née Keshish), tells of being a community pharmacist at this time. “Although I started as a hospital pharmacist, I now work in community pharmacies. I chose this profession because I enjoy interacting with people, helping them with health advice, and dispensing the right medication to help them feel better. “The pandemic has changed the way we interact with patients. Screens have been put up and I find it difficult to really listen and talk to everyone. My patients are scared and just want to leave as soon as they get their medication: masks and gloves put everybody on edge. “I stay motivated because I have a good team. We all are trying to be kind and understanding, especially regarding social distancing. It’s also reassuring to know I’m helping patients during this worrying time. I’m grateful and pleased to be there for the patients. “After this is over, I’m looking forward to having freedom in the workspace to move and talk to patients without fear. On a personal level, I can’t wait to go on holiday with my family, just to go to dinner and go out without social distancing. I want to hug my friends and extended family when I finally see them! That would be amazing.”
