Adjusting to Disruption: My Experience with Community-Based Research During COVID-19

Abstract

This reflective essay details how I responded to the rapidly evolving pandemic during my community-based research internship with the Centre for Community Research, Learning, and Action at my university, Wilfrid Laurier. My essay reflects on the disruption that COVID- 19 caused to the recruitment process and rapport building, the challenges I faced in the roles I took on in this research internship, and the personal growth experiences I gained as a result. Through thoughtful reflection on research ethics, positionality, and privilege my essay can contribute to the literature on community-based research with an emphasis on overcoming disruption.