How To Maintain College Life Amid The Pandemic
College life can be full of excitement, growth and learning for most students. It may be your first time away from home. It may also be the first time you consider your career goals. Either way it’s a time for enrichment. Unfortunately, the pandemic has changed the current outlook of higher education for all students.
Students from all colleges and universities have had to adjust to their new way of life. Due to safety protocols many have been forced to learn virtually, live outside of campus housing and have sudden adjustments to their financial aid packages. Despite the pandemic higher education is still attainable. However it requires a different level of focus to remain on track.
“My school fortunately gave students the option to completely learn online. Personally I only have one class out of 6, in person this year because it is a Lab class for my Nursing program,” reports Aryanna of Towson University. “I am just trying to focus on getting my classes done. I know that I cannot control what everyone else is doing but I can do my best to keep myself healthy and safe,” she continues. “Everyone has to do what is best for themselves. Wear your masks, don’t touch door handles, don’t touch your face, wash your hands and if you’re sick stay home. Be a kind human; and care about the health and safety of others,” Aryanna continues.
College Thriver, Inc. is one non-profit organization that is assisting students in their higher education transition amid the pandemic. Led by its Founder, Shawntia Lee, College Thriver is providing students with access to affordable solutions for college admissions; student housing; transportation; counseling; and scholarships. Shawntia is also aware of the new changes in which COVID-19 is bringing about for college students.
She offers these tips for online learning during this current pandemic:
- Focus & Remain Distraction Free. Whether that means turning off the TV or going to a quiet room in your home, less distraction is best.
- Break Up Your Tasks. Work for 30 minutes then take a break to exercise, listen to music or to go for a walk. Looking at the computer screen for too long can become boring.
- Zoom It Up. For live, Zoom classes it’s best to speak up and ask questions during the session. Your professors are still recording participation points so it’s still necessary to be present during the class session. If you don’t know about the material, then always ask.
We certainly hope that the pandemic will soon end. However in the midst of it all there is still hope in continuing your higher education. Despite the sudden changes for students, college can still remain to be a time for opportunity and worthwhile experiences. For assistance in accessing and maintaining your studies please connect with College Thriver, Inc at www.college-thriver.org or 407–530–3800.
Writer, C. Scott, is a mother of one; author, social worker, early literacy interventionist and entrepreneur. Follow her on social media as @curls_coils and @mysweettealife.
