New YouTube video by C-N student offers comfort during challenging times

(April 1, 2020) JEFFERSON CITY, Tenn. – A catchy tune, comforting words and a desire to help others are the essence of a new YouTube song and video by Carson-Newman University junior Jessica Borchert.

Written in one day, “Don’t Have to Feel Alone” is a song to help remind, not only her fellow students, but also everyone dealing with health, social and economic struggles during the coronavirus outbreak that there are support systems available.

“I really wanted to foster a sense of peace in this time of impermanence with COVID-19,” said Borchert, an art major with a social work minor. With aspirations of one day being an art therapist, Borchert has a heart for others. This was evidenced in her internship with East Tennessee Children’s Hospital before the COVID-19 interruption. It was an experience she said she misses.

Now taking her classes online during a time of social distancing, Borchert looked to a different outlet to support others. “I just wanted to do something meaningful that might help people,” said the Jefferson City resident.

Armed with her ukulele, newly formed lyrics and a camera, Borchert set out to produce a video showcasing images of home and comfort.

“I wanted to give people a sense of peace,” she said. “That their friends are there on the other end of the phone. I really wanted people to know that everyone has support and there is always someone to call.”

Founded in 1851, Carson-Newman is a Christian liberal arts-based university affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention. The University is located in Jefferson City, Tennessee, among the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and has over 2,700 students. Carson-Newman offers 50 undergraduate majors, as well as associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.