5 answers
Graclynn
Student
Watertown, South Dakota
1
Question
Asked
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How will I handle doing college 100% online?
I've always loved to do schooling on my own and online.
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5 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
2524
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Graclynn !
At first I was only going to give a quick piece of advice but now I see that one of your tags indicates that you may be doing an Education Degree online. The quick advice is to make sure all of your tuition is paid up or you won't get your official diploma. Keep up with the tuition.
So, doing an Education Degree solely online is not advisable or an experience that will offer you the essence of what Education is. It is a very, very heavy people oriented career on many levels and doing it online will shortchange you of the full experience of doing it in person at a campus. I do believe that some degrees can be fine to obtain only online, however, Education or any medical career really needs to be done in person to get the most professional preparation.
You can consider doing one year solely online and then switching to the in-person experience if it's for an Education Degree. Like Advisor Nayra Guevara has thoughtfully mentioned, there will be experiences that you can have on campus that you wouldn't necessarily have opportunities for doing it by technology only. Like I said, it's a very people oriented career and you would better hone your communication skills and communication versatility more accurately if you do it in person.
Does your online degree program do internship or student teaching placement ? Are there a comparable amount of supports for students at your online college as there would be at an in person college campus ? I understand that Watertown, South Dakota is quite rural and secluded and that is probably why you are choosing to get a college degree online.
It is important that you find someplace to do volunteer work because the people who will apply for the same jobs as you will have lots of experience, so if you can find any type of volunteer work in person, especially working with children as your tag says elementary education as a target population. I understand how hard it might be in a very small town as I was born and raised in one but moved out of it as soon as I could and went to college 3,000 miles away.
Things may change for you, but for right now, people who have done only online degrees can give you the best advice. I hope that what I've advised can serve as things to think about and I wish you all the best !
At first I was only going to give a quick piece of advice but now I see that one of your tags indicates that you may be doing an Education Degree online. The quick advice is to make sure all of your tuition is paid up or you won't get your official diploma. Keep up with the tuition.
So, doing an Education Degree solely online is not advisable or an experience that will offer you the essence of what Education is. It is a very, very heavy people oriented career on many levels and doing it online will shortchange you of the full experience of doing it in person at a campus. I do believe that some degrees can be fine to obtain only online, however, Education or any medical career really needs to be done in person to get the most professional preparation.
You can consider doing one year solely online and then switching to the in-person experience if it's for an Education Degree. Like Advisor Nayra Guevara has thoughtfully mentioned, there will be experiences that you can have on campus that you wouldn't necessarily have opportunities for doing it by technology only. Like I said, it's a very people oriented career and you would better hone your communication skills and communication versatility more accurately if you do it in person.
Does your online degree program do internship or student teaching placement ? Are there a comparable amount of supports for students at your online college as there would be at an in person college campus ? I understand that Watertown, South Dakota is quite rural and secluded and that is probably why you are choosing to get a college degree online.
It is important that you find someplace to do volunteer work because the people who will apply for the same jobs as you will have lots of experience, so if you can find any type of volunteer work in person, especially working with children as your tag says elementary education as a target population. I understand how hard it might be in a very small town as I was born and raised in one but moved out of it as soon as I could and went to college 3,000 miles away.
Things may change for you, but for right now, people who have done only online degrees can give you the best advice. I hope that what I've advised can serve as things to think about and I wish you all the best !
Ngoc Nguyen
8
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Ngoc’s Answer
Hi Graclynn,
That is a very good question!
Although studying online can be challenging and more difficult than in person, there is a few ways to make the process effective!
During the first week, try to get familiar with all your classes and professors, and even classmates, it will be extremely helpful for you to know who to go to for questions regarding class work, homework, and big projects. There should be information for each project and how to complete them in your class section/page so working on them may not be as complicated as it seems. The huge difference between online and in person class is getting to know people. Sometimes you have group projects and making sure every member do their part of the project and submitting them online is one challenge. This is why you should always get to know your classmates by sending them an email before you start the project, and start a group chat for easier communication, this will make the process super efficient.
If you want to participate in events and activities the school offer but you're not on campus, I recommend reaching out to your advisor and ask them how you can join while you're not there. There may be virtual events as well so you can always join them, you may just need a computer. Joining these events can be both fun and informative for your studying or skills about your majors, or you simply learn a new skill!
Another thing about online class is the deadline. Pay attention to the due date of all of your project, I really recommend writing them down in a notebook or have them as reminder in your devices. This little tip can prevent you from submitting your work late. Late work can really bring down your total grade of that class, so be aware of the important dates. You can definitely plan ahead, let's say you are planning on a trip and the due date happens to be on the day you are traveling. You should make plan to finish most or all of the project first, that way when you are traveling, the project is already submitted. Since this is online, also know the time difference between your area and the class as that can cause confusion.
Last thing is having important questions about a certain topic or a big project. There may be multiple ways to reach out to your professor, including email, phone call or scheduling an online meeting with them. This is crucial to know but whenever you send them an email, or leave them a message, they may take a while to reply. This can take just a few hours, or up to 1-2 days. So make sure to contact them ahead and not close to the deadline of the project. If you want to schedule a meeting because you have many questions, also do it ahead of time, since if you wait, others might take the earliest spots and that leaves you a few last options, and you may be busy at those times. So, planning things ahead is one of the most important things!
I hope this helps!
Ngoc
That is a very good question!
Although studying online can be challenging and more difficult than in person, there is a few ways to make the process effective!
During the first week, try to get familiar with all your classes and professors, and even classmates, it will be extremely helpful for you to know who to go to for questions regarding class work, homework, and big projects. There should be information for each project and how to complete them in your class section/page so working on them may not be as complicated as it seems. The huge difference between online and in person class is getting to know people. Sometimes you have group projects and making sure every member do their part of the project and submitting them online is one challenge. This is why you should always get to know your classmates by sending them an email before you start the project, and start a group chat for easier communication, this will make the process super efficient.
If you want to participate in events and activities the school offer but you're not on campus, I recommend reaching out to your advisor and ask them how you can join while you're not there. There may be virtual events as well so you can always join them, you may just need a computer. Joining these events can be both fun and informative for your studying or skills about your majors, or you simply learn a new skill!
Another thing about online class is the deadline. Pay attention to the due date of all of your project, I really recommend writing them down in a notebook or have them as reminder in your devices. This little tip can prevent you from submitting your work late. Late work can really bring down your total grade of that class, so be aware of the important dates. You can definitely plan ahead, let's say you are planning on a trip and the due date happens to be on the day you are traveling. You should make plan to finish most or all of the project first, that way when you are traveling, the project is already submitted. Since this is online, also know the time difference between your area and the class as that can cause confusion.
Last thing is having important questions about a certain topic or a big project. There may be multiple ways to reach out to your professor, including email, phone call or scheduling an online meeting with them. This is crucial to know but whenever you send them an email, or leave them a message, they may take a while to reply. This can take just a few hours, or up to 1-2 days. So make sure to contact them ahead and not close to the deadline of the project. If you want to schedule a meeting because you have many questions, also do it ahead of time, since if you wait, others might take the earliest spots and that leaves you a few last options, and you may be busy at those times. So, planning things ahead is one of the most important things!
I hope this helps!
Ngoc
Sarah Weasel
Escalations Case Manager
1
Answer
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Handling college completely online might seem tough, but with the right approach, you can turn it into a successful and fulfilling journey. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Create Your Study Zone: Set up a calm, tidy spot where you can concentrate on your work without interruptions.
- Stick to a Routine: Follow a regular schedule for classes, studying, and breaks. This keeps things normal and helps you stay disciplined.
- Stay Connected: Chat with classmates and teachers through online forums, video calls, and social media. Building a support system is important.
- Use Technology Smartly: Make use of calendars, task managers, and note-taking apps to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.
- Take Breaks: Regular breaks are key to avoiding burnout. Use this time to relax, exercise, or enjoy hobbies.
- Ask for Help: If you’re having trouble, don’t hesitate to seek academic support or counseling.
By embracing these tips, you’re on your way to success! Best of luck!
- Create Your Study Zone: Set up a calm, tidy spot where you can concentrate on your work without interruptions.
- Stick to a Routine: Follow a regular schedule for classes, studying, and breaks. This keeps things normal and helps you stay disciplined.
- Stay Connected: Chat with classmates and teachers through online forums, video calls, and social media. Building a support system is important.
- Use Technology Smartly: Make use of calendars, task managers, and note-taking apps to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.
- Take Breaks: Regular breaks are key to avoiding burnout. Use this time to relax, exercise, or enjoy hobbies.
- Ask for Help: If you’re having trouble, don’t hesitate to seek academic support or counseling.
By embracing these tips, you’re on your way to success! Best of luck!
Insaf Bouallegue
Technical Trainer and Mentor
2
Answers
Tunis, Tunisia
Updated
Insaf’s Answer
As someone who works and has studied completely online, here's my top tip for you: Get involved in online discussions and join virtual study groups. This can really boost your learning and help you stay in touch with others. Make the most of online resources like digital libraries and academic databases to get all the materials you need. Stay motivated by setting goals and giving yourself small rewards when you achieve them. Don't forget to take care of your body and mind, as this will help you handle the challenges of online learning better.
Nayra Guevara
Global HR Specialist
14
Answers
Spain
Updated
Nayra’s Answer
Hi Graclynn, thank you for this question!
Studying online requires discipline and a high level of commitment; it is a great option for people that need to balance other commitments or goals at the same time, and makes education available to all. On the downside, some of the college experiences may not be available or can be quite different from what is offered on site, like events, activities and opportunities to connect with other people.
You can make the most out of the online experience by putting an extra effort into the following next steps that are aimed to amplify your social experience and overall online education experience.
Best of luck!
Set clear goals and a schedule to ensure you are putting in the time required to learn all subjects and meet deadlines.
Reach out to fellow students and interact to build connections and share the experience.
Join online communities or start your own to be part of a group of people that shares similar interests.
Join study groups; it is demonstrated some people feel motivated to study when in a group.
Studying online requires discipline and a high level of commitment; it is a great option for people that need to balance other commitments or goals at the same time, and makes education available to all. On the downside, some of the college experiences may not be available or can be quite different from what is offered on site, like events, activities and opportunities to connect with other people.
You can make the most out of the online experience by putting an extra effort into the following next steps that are aimed to amplify your social experience and overall online education experience.
Best of luck!
Nayra recommends the following next steps: