As the COVID-19 pandemic expands across the country and social distancing must be practiced, it may feel like nearly all aspects of our lives are being affected.
This is especially true for students who must now attend remote classes and adapt to online learning.
Here are some tips for being a successful student during these rapidly changing times.
1. Create a Work Station at Home
As tempting as it is to stay in bed or relax on the couch, it is important to have a work area for studying and attending online sessions.
This will give you the feeling that you are still “in class” and will allow you to distinguish between your school life and home life.
Try to create a learning environment that works for you and limits distractions as much as possible.
I know it is difficult to find a quiet study space when your whole family is home most of the time!
Communication is key here; let everyone know you have online sessions coming up or when you have to study.
2. Establish Daily Schedules
While it is exciting to not have to attend school anymore, maintaining a regular schedule is both essential and challenging.
Time can slip by quickly without our usual routines and deadlines.
You should create an individualized plan that includes both personal and academic goals.
Write down a list of what needs to be completed as well as what you want to do in a given day.
As you check off the activities you will feel accomplished, energized, and will gain momentum for your next day.
Make time for relaxation while still up-keeping your study habits. Balance is key!
3. Understand What Is Expected of You
While many class expectations may be similar to the in-person guidelines, the nature of online learning calls for new requirements!
Some professors expect you to actively engage during online sessions, some may assign materials to review on your own time, and others may employ a combination of techniques.
Whatever it may be, by understanding the course expectations you are setting yourself up for success.
Remember, you are not expected to be perfect, but should give online learning your best effort.
4. Stay in Touch With Your Classmates and Friends
Just because you no longer see your friends in person, it doesn’t mean you can’t connect with them virtually.
Also, classmates can help you navigate through the new curriculum as all of you adjust to online classes.
Remember, they are going through the same experiences as you are!
Social distancing can put strain on mental health. So, check in with your loved ones whenever possible.
Maintaining connections with your friends creates a support system while we go through this difficult situation together.
5. Move Your Body Often
Have you been putting off exercising because you didn’t have enough time?
Well, now there is no excuse! Exercise improves your mood, boosts your mental health, and reduces risk of heart disease.
As a bonus, it’s a healthy way to kill time during quarantine!
You should choose workouts that are right for you at least a few times per week. Although gyms are currently closed, there are many ways you can still exercise.
Try using your body weight or get creative with heavy objects from around the house.
Outdoor exercise and running are safe as long as you practice social distancing and stay away from others.
6. Have Fun on Your Weekends
Do you ever wake up and have no idea what day of the week it is? Well, you’re not alone!
Staying in the house all day, every day, can make it feel like days are blending into each other. Which is why creating schedules and sticking to them is very important.
You should work hard and stay on top of your classes during the week so you can plan fun activities for the weekends!
Although we may not be able to “go out”, we can still rent movies, have family game night, host virtual parties with friends, etc.
Doing something special on a Friday night or Saturday reminds you that the week has come to an end while giving you something to look forward to.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help!
Reach out to classmates and professors if you feel stuck or unsure about something. Everyone knows it’s difficult to embrace drastic change.
If online learning is not for you, the first step is to identify the areas that you are having trouble with.
Are you lacking motivation? Do you learn better through face to face interactions? Is your home not conducive to a learning environment?
Send your professors and administrators an e-mail or set up a virtual meeting. They will work with you to find solutions to these obstacles.
They want you to succeed and are also facing challenges themselves.
These are strange, uncertain, and stressful times. However, you have the choice to either be intimidated by our current situation or to view it as an opportunity for growth.
Do things you’ve always wanted to do but never had time for. Learn a new skill, practice your hobbies, find your next passion, and reach out to old friends.
Enjoy time with your family members! Be grateful that you still have them.
Improve your self-discipline and time-management. You don’t have a professor looking over your shoulder anymore and learning is all up to you.
It may feel like this will last forever, but this is temporary and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. So please stay positive!
I really like your blog.. very nice colors & theme!
I quite like reading through an article that will make people think.
Hi Agnes, I’m so glad you found this helpful!
this makes a lot of sense, i had no idea how to help myself during the online school process . . tysm!