4 answers
Jana
Student
Memphis, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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What are some success tips for online university students?
What are some tips for a first- year college student attending a university that's entirely online? The low graduation rates scare me a bit, so I want to do everything I can to increase my chances of success.
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4 answers
Matt Miller, MBA
Customer Success
2
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hi Jana,
It is very wise of you to consider this a challenge and to understand that there are some risks to doing a degree entirely remotely. The reason many people fall off and don't complete the program is outside distractions and a lack of interaction through regular check-ins. If you are already considering these concerns, you are already ahead of the rest, and this is important.
Here are a couple of recommendations I would consider as you start this new journey:
1. Set aside a schedule every week and find someone else who can validate and keep you accountable to ensure you are studying and working during those times.
2. Set some specific goals of what you expect to accomplish each week and put them on your calendar with reminders.
3. If you miss a goal or personal deadline (one you set for yourself), don't let that discourage you and just pick up where you left off.
4. You only fail if you don't keep trying and pushing forward. Many online programs are competency-based and, therefore, require you to have mastery before moving on to the next level. Take that as a challenge to keep working through until you meet the criteria and ask for help through the supporting resources.
5. Communicate and ask for help from your professors or assistants.
6. Don't let anyone else tell you that you can't do it. Stay encouraged and go get it!!
Good Luck; I know you can do it!
It is very wise of you to consider this a challenge and to understand that there are some risks to doing a degree entirely remotely. The reason many people fall off and don't complete the program is outside distractions and a lack of interaction through regular check-ins. If you are already considering these concerns, you are already ahead of the rest, and this is important.
Here are a couple of recommendations I would consider as you start this new journey:
1. Set aside a schedule every week and find someone else who can validate and keep you accountable to ensure you are studying and working during those times.
2. Set some specific goals of what you expect to accomplish each week and put them on your calendar with reminders.
3. If you miss a goal or personal deadline (one you set for yourself), don't let that discourage you and just pick up where you left off.
4. You only fail if you don't keep trying and pushing forward. Many online programs are competency-based and, therefore, require you to have mastery before moving on to the next level. Take that as a challenge to keep working through until you meet the criteria and ask for help through the supporting resources.
5. Communicate and ask for help from your professors or assistants.
6. Don't let anyone else tell you that you can't do it. Stay encouraged and go get it!!
Good Luck; I know you can do it!
I really appreciate it, thank you!
Jana
Stephanie Way
Program Management and Project Management
5
Answers
Larkspur, Colorado
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Create a daily routine to help you finish your tasks and stay on track. Communicate often, even more than you think is necessary, since you rely on electronic communication. Take the initiative to ask your classmates if they want to meet weekly to discuss the course, assignments, or interesting topics.
Vivian Tyrrel
IT Manager
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Vivian’s Answer
Hi Jana,
Online school can be a great option with many benefits. I completed both my degrees online, and it was a challenging but rewarding journey. I hope you find it just as fulfilling.
To succeed, it's important to be disciplined. Managing your time well and staying organized are key. Make sure to do a little bit every day, though you can take breaks on weekends.
Set a realistic schedule. Figure out how much time you need for schoolwork each day, and be flexible for unexpected events. If you finish early, use the time to get ahead or catch up. Also, remember to plan for personal and professional commitments, like trips, so you stay on track.
Stay organized. If you don't have a system yet, create one for managing your schoolwork. Set up folders on your computer for each class and decide how to handle non-digital materials. Make sure your study space is free of distractions.
Connect with others. It can feel lonely online, so try to socialize with classmates. Join group projects and participate in discussions. Being active online will help you build connections similar to in-person classes.
Be kind to yourself. You'll face challenges and uncertainties, especially at the start. Allow yourself time to learn and grow from these experiences.
And most importantly, have fun! Enjoy your assignments and share your experiences with others. Look for opportunities to connect within your online school community. Many schools offer groups you can join that aren't directly related to your degree, which can enrich your experience.
I wish you the best and hope your online school journey is fulfilling.
Vivian
Online school can be a great option with many benefits. I completed both my degrees online, and it was a challenging but rewarding journey. I hope you find it just as fulfilling.
To succeed, it's important to be disciplined. Managing your time well and staying organized are key. Make sure to do a little bit every day, though you can take breaks on weekends.
Set a realistic schedule. Figure out how much time you need for schoolwork each day, and be flexible for unexpected events. If you finish early, use the time to get ahead or catch up. Also, remember to plan for personal and professional commitments, like trips, so you stay on track.
Stay organized. If you don't have a system yet, create one for managing your schoolwork. Set up folders on your computer for each class and decide how to handle non-digital materials. Make sure your study space is free of distractions.
Connect with others. It can feel lonely online, so try to socialize with classmates. Join group projects and participate in discussions. Being active online will help you build connections similar to in-person classes.
Be kind to yourself. You'll face challenges and uncertainties, especially at the start. Allow yourself time to learn and grow from these experiences.
And most importantly, have fun! Enjoy your assignments and share your experiences with others. Look for opportunities to connect within your online school community. Many schools offer groups you can join that aren't directly related to your degree, which can enrich your experience.
I wish you the best and hope your online school journey is fulfilling.
Vivian
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Jana. One of the most important things is to have a schedule. Online classes are flexible, but if you don't plan your time, it's easy to fall behind. You can treat your classes like in-person ones, and set specific times for watching lectures, studying, doing assignments, and reviewing notes.
Another important tip is to stay organized and manage your time. Online learning requires self-discipline. Keep all your notes, assignments, and course materials in one place. Also, you should set daily or weekly goals for reading, watching lectures, and completing assignments. Try to focus on one task at a time instead of multitasking, because it helps you learn better.
Participating and communicating with professors and classmates is also very important. Even online, it helps to build connections. You may ask questions in discussion boards, attend virtual office hours, and respond to other students' posts. Talking to professors when you don't understand something is very helpful as they expect students to ask for help. Building these connections can also make your online classes feel more engaging and less lonely.
It's also important to develop good study habits and a quiet learning space. You may need to find a place where you can study without distractions. And, reviewing your notes regularly is better than cramming before exams.
Furthermore, you need to stay motivated and remember your goals. Keep in mind why you chose your program and what you want to achieve. Wishing you all the best.
Another important tip is to stay organized and manage your time. Online learning requires self-discipline. Keep all your notes, assignments, and course materials in one place. Also, you should set daily or weekly goals for reading, watching lectures, and completing assignments. Try to focus on one task at a time instead of multitasking, because it helps you learn better.
Participating and communicating with professors and classmates is also very important. Even online, it helps to build connections. You may ask questions in discussion boards, attend virtual office hours, and respond to other students' posts. Talking to professors when you don't understand something is very helpful as they expect students to ask for help. Building these connections can also make your online classes feel more engaging and less lonely.
It's also important to develop good study habits and a quiet learning space. You may need to find a place where you can study without distractions. And, reviewing your notes regularly is better than cramming before exams.
Furthermore, you need to stay motivated and remember your goals. Keep in mind why you chose your program and what you want to achieve. Wishing you all the best.