Reflections about the experience during the pandemic: UNAM students in the face of inequalities and privileges

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, remote education was implemented. This event triggered, among other consequences, the resignation of thousands of students from higher education, of those that could not continue under the new dynamic due to economic problems, family losses, lack of motivation, hardships with mental and physical health, among others. Nonetheless, many students managed to continue their academic processes, making use of different strategies, and subsequently had the chance to return to the classroom gradually. In this context, an inquiry was carried out to learn about what happened to the students during this health crisis in the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). A qualitative approach was adopted to deepen in the subjectivity of the parties, and the sociology of academic experience was assumed as a theoretical base. Some of the participants made a series of reflections about what they perceived as a contrast between inequality and privilege. They also criticized the role of the institution, as they considered it did not develop enough mechanisms for retention, and they even questioned the meaning and social utility of their career. This is a contribution in the field of higher education in our country and Latin America, as it provides evidence on the critical look from students who were educated in public education during one of our contemporary history most critical periods.