The purpose of this study was to employ autoethnography as a methodology to examine my doctoral comprehensive exam experience in the context of COVID-19. It was a special period of "isolation squared" with both the take-home exam and the stay-at-home order enforced. Through diary entries, I recorded my complex feelings of overwhelming, anxiety, fears, and guiltiness during the exam process. Drawing on the lens of situated learning, I interpreted my self-reflective experience as an effort to move from a novice researcher to full participation. Situating my learning in a wider context, I obtained a deeper understanding of myself, my relationship with others, and the socio-cultural context. [For the complete volume, "American Association for Adult and Continuing Education Inaugural 2020 Conference Proceedings (Online, October 27-30, 2020)," see ED611534.]