First Year Success For Online Students

By Elaine Simmons

Prior to enrolling for courses in your freshman year, try to take any study skill courses available either on-line or while you are still in high school. These courses can make the difference between a successful or stressful first year. These courses will assist you in how to research information, organize your notes, and structure your study time.

Going to college is stressful for everyone. You are one of the lucky people, if you are going to school online, who does not have to worry about moving to a new place to go to school. The fact that you don't have to change your surroundings does not mean that you should not make sure you have the right environment set up for you to succeed. Online colleges have their advantage but they also require more discipline by the student to make sure that when they are "in class" they position themselves in a quiet spot where they can concentrate.

Students who go to college online frequently believe that it will be easy to focus at their own house. Many times this is not the case. Going into a classroom allows you to give your full attention to the teacher as they present the material.

It may be best to pick a spot like a library where the phone will not ring. If you do decide to study at home make sure you set up a room with a clear, clean, quiet area. You may need to pick times of the day when your neighbors will not be mowing the lawn or playing a loud stereo.

One of the many reasons that students decide to take classes online is so that they can be in control of their own schedule. This should not be overlooked as a major advantage to this method of study but it can also be a major weakness. You must make sure to set aside enough regular time so that you can fully focus on your schoolwork. Often times this means studying while everyone else in the house is sleeping or out to work. You may even need to go to the library to find some alone time that allows you to get your school work done.

When you take an online class it's almost a necessity to buy a laptop. It helps you move around to different location in order to study in a quiet spot. As long as you have a wireless connection you'll have many options.

Take advantage of the fact that you are on-line and have your web browser, along with your word processor running in the background for quick access to references and note taking. If you are participating in a 'live-feed' situation where the course is being presented via webcam, where your participation is expected, then make sure that you are located in a quite space so that you can hear what is being asked. Sitting at a table in Starbucks can be relaxing but it is no place to be when you have to ask and answer questions on line!

It is important to realize that just because you are taking your classes online does not mean that you don't have to have all the necessary school supplies. You should get your notebooks, textbooks pens and highlighters the same way you would for a normal class. You will need to print documents and papers too so having a good supply of paper and a working printer and ink is also important.

Congratulations on starting the first year of your online college degree. If you prepare now and work hard you should have a great overall experience and get everything you want out of your college education. Remember if you are falling behind or you don't feel comfortable with something about your classes, make sure to bring it up to your advisor or a college representative as soon as possible. There are many ways that the school can help you have a more positive experience including tutoring and making adjustments to your schedule. Don't be afraid to speak up and good luck.

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