I've always claimed --- and at least once on this blog --- that I like having a job that combines research and teaching, but the last few years have really pushed this conviction. It turns out that I like have a job that combines research and teaching actual students. I'm not saying my 1014 and 1116 Zoom students were bots, but when you're talking to a picture of yourself and a lot of black rectangles on a screen, it's hard to tell the difference.
Lecturing to a large class is the closest most mathematicians get to being rockstars (and granted, it's not that close!), and it turns out I'd rather have a live concert in a small venue than a lot of downloads on Spotify.
It's a reflection of my tremendous luck and privilege that Zoom lectures are one of my big complaints about the last few years. I recognise this, and my heartfelt sympathies go out to all those who've dealt with the much worse consequences of the pandemic. I know this includes many of my students, and the effects are on-going, so I'll wrap this up before I get too wrapped up: it's been really wonderful to have the chance to talk with students again. Human connection was one of the big casualties of defending against COVID, and it's fantastic to see this recovering. Come to office hours --- it's great to have you back!
