My Tips for Taking College Classes Online
Before COVID-19, I did not think I was capable of having a “hybrid” college experience. The idea of learning key concepts I need to know for internships and future career opportunities from a makeshift office in our spare bedroom is scary, yet it’s now reality. This past fall, I was on campus taking the majority of my classes from my dorm room. However, I’m now back home in Florida for my spring semester. Now that I’m surrounded by family and warm weather, learning from home has taken some time to get used to. It was very hard to find ways to stay productive and engaged in class. Now, I'd like to share what has been working for me.
Map Out Your Assignments
The first glance at the syllabus of any class is daunting. No matter how many exams, readings, presentations, or discussion posts there are listed, the course load will almost always seem overwhelming. However, these first-day jitters can be helped. During my first week of classes, I made it a point to write down each of my assignment due dates. I used to be an avid agenda user, but this semester I opted for a more digital format. This way, I could access major dates with easy access on my phone on the go. Luckily, I was able to easily find a template on Google Sheets that separates classes and stores each assignment’s due dates, progress, and descriptions.
*picture taken from templates on Google Sheets Home*
*picture taken using Assignment Tracker Template*
Using this format or simply listing each assignment in a physical agenda can give you much needed peace-of-mind rather than constant worry about looming due dates. Though it takes time, this process is a sure way to review the semester’s workload and start planning your days accordingly.
Be Engaged
Whether it be in office hours, emails or dm’s on Instagram, staying connected to others throughout the semester is crucial. Personally, I find it relieving to know when I have at least one peer contact in each of my courses. This way, if I have a conflict or question, I can reach out to that friend for guidance. In the past it was easy to bond with classmates that I had recognized in the auditorium and made conversation with, but this school year's restrictions left me with room to get creative. Now, I usually end up searching for a classmate's name on Instagram to see if we share any common friends. From there, I send a message or get their information from a friend and reach out to introduce myself. Surprisingly, I've made some good friends with this method!
Similarly, I’ve learned over time that each professor or TA is much more inclined to be understanding and helpful if they know you as an individual. In this digital era, attending office hours and introducing oneself has been made easier than ever. As early as possible, it’s best to make yourself known as an engaged student willing to put in the work. It might seem unnecessary or inconvenient, but if you run into trouble and miss a deadline, you will be happy you did made an initial connection with a professor that controls your grade. If you're lucky, they will give you a chance to make it up or some partial credit.
Take Breaks
Although the goal is to enjoy learning, that can be hard to do when it seems like we have no time for anything else. College is not meant to be a 9-5 job. In fact, it's our last few years before we eventually begin a 9-5 job. Therefore, we are not required to sit at our desks or in a small work room all day. I’ve found that it’s best to map out my day in terms of actual class time, time spent working on homework or studying, and time to relax. Whether it be watching Netflix, going to see a friend, walking around campus, or grabbing Dunkin to get yourself through the next few classes, it’s crucial to give your brain some time to recharge. It might seem inconvenient or distracting, but you will thank yourself later when you are still able to focus on school work at the end of the night.
Do Whatever Works For YOU!
This is just what I find to be helpful for my personal routine. There is not one end-all hack to rid a college student of stress. With a full time course load comes nights with stress and deadlines. Sadly, no number of helpful tips can take each assignment and test off your plate. However, it’s possible to make this time easier on yourself.
Lastly, I want to know how you stay on track with classes. If you try one of these tips, or have some of your own, comment below!
*some random moments I've captured throughout fall and spring semester*