On a microlevel to me personally, I just need to figure out how to function in this new way. I’m in my childhood bedroom in Brazil and I’ve changed so much in the past three years. I’m a junior in college–living for three years alone in New York is so different. It kind of feels like going back in time. I was so different than who I am today, so I’m trying to figure out a way to preserve who I am in the present while being in a space of the past. I just like who I am more now. The most important thing to me is just figuring out a way to still be the version of me that I am presently while being in an environment that’s from the past.
What was most important to you before you had to social distance?
When I was in New York, I didn’t have to worry about all these things. I could prioritize things that were more important to me. I would prioritize walking around, being with friends, singing lessons, figuring out who I am, and appreciating where I am because I love it so much. It kind of brings you back to basics when you’re social distancing because you don’t have any distractions and you don’t have anything outside of your room and your apartment. I feel like I have to prioritize things that naturally I wouldn’t prioritize.
What’s the first thing you’ll do when this is over?
Fly to New York! That night, I’m going to a Broadway show or a concert, whatever is back. Any live music that I can find, I will be there. I will be in any large gathering of people listening to music.
What are you doing to pass the time?
I’m trying to get better and guitar, I’m sleeping a lot, and I’ve also been trying to get in a mind space where I don’t get mad at myself if I’m not doing a lot of things to pass the time. I feel like there is a lot of pressure to get better at things. [If] it’s not bringing me joy, I’m just going to stop and let myself rest. I don’t have to be at a New Yorker pace right now, because I’m not–no one is. I’m also doing Broadway Weekends classes, which are super fun. I’ve been watching a lot of interviews, and now that I think about it it’s probably because I miss talking to people. And eating a lot, but what’s new?
What makes you happy right now?
Music. I’ve been listening to this 2009 hits playlist. I miss that music so much! I guess it just makes me nostalgic and happy. Dance parties in your room!
What would you tell yourself two months ago with the knowledge you have today?
I don’t have regrets coming into this. I feel like New York brings out the best version of me. I feel like I was doing everything I wanted to do. I would be doing it right now if I could. I would say “breathe, it’s going to be ok.” There’s nothing I could have done to prepare for this. I’m still figuring it out, I still don’t know how to function in this. New York has been through so much shit, and I know we’re going to figure it out. I have no doubt that New York is going to rise above it.
