As a PhD student and an adjunct professor, I’ve found that many students are grappling with uncertainty about college this fall due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. With the potential for individuals to be asymptomatic for up to two weeks, a lack of robust testing, and unclear guidelines regarding safety, universities face the daunting task of determining whether to welcome students back to campus.
Recently, California State University, the largest public university system in the U.S., announced that they would be conducting online classes this fall. Meanwhile, some smaller institutions are planning to resume in-person instruction. Reflecting on my own experience with online learning last semester, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it went. While I prefer face-to-face interaction, I believe that online courses this fall will benefit from improved preparation by instructors.
Five Key Questions to Consider
For undergraduates contemplating their fall plans, here are five key questions to consider:
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What would my plans be if everything were “normal”?
Before exploring alternatives, it’s crucial to reflect on your initial intentions for attending college. Are you genuinely excited about pursuing higher education? Be honest with yourself. -
What will I do if I decide not to take college classes?
Simply watching videos online isn’t a constructive plan. If you have a solid strategy for your time off, it can be beneficial. However, with fewer internships available and the world navigating various stages of the pandemic, consider what your next steps might be. Will you work part-time, volunteer, or perhaps take on an apprenticeship? Setting benchmarks, such as enrolling in community college classes if you don’t find work by a specific date, can help keep you focused. -
Do I have valid concerns about online classes?
Adapting to unexpected changes can be unsettling. While it’s natural to feel disappointed about missing out on social interactions and campus life, remember that academic growth remains a core reason for attending college. Fortunately, online courses can still provide valuable learning experiences. For example, my last semester’s classes included live lectures, which allowed for interactive questioning and deeper understanding. Many students found that they engaged more when attending from a comfortable location. -
How can I optimize my online school experience this fall?
For returning students, not being on campus may be disheartening, while freshmen may face added uncertainty. The first semester is often the toughest, with nearly 30% of college freshmen dropping out after their first year. Starting online could offer some advantages, allowing new students to acclimate to college-level learning without the pressure of a physical campus. Students might consider enrolling in shorter online courses at community colleges to ease into the academic environment, and if connection is a concern, checking for group work opportunities in the syllabus can be beneficial. -
What makes financial sense?
With student loan debt averaging around $28,650 for graduates from 2017, pursuing online classes at a community college or a public four-year institution while living at home can be a wise financial decision. Many general education courses transfer between institutions, so it’s worth investigating options before making a commitment. If public speaking is a requirement you dread, consider tackling that course online now, where you might feel less pressure.
Ultimately, adjusting to the ongoing pandemic is challenging for everyone. The effort you invest in your classes significantly influences what you gain from them. While many students and professors prefer in-person learning, online courses continue to offer an effective way to pursue education amid these unprecedented times. For further insights into related topics, explore this blog post or check out Cryobaby’s home insemination kit for authoritative information on home insemination. Additionally, the Fertility Center at Johns Hopkins provides excellent resources for those interested in pregnancy and family planning.
Summary
Navigating college decisions amid COVID-19 can be challenging. It’s essential for students to reflect on their true intentions, consider alternatives if not attending, evaluate concerns about online learning, optimize their academic experience, and make financially sound choices. With thoughtful planning and flexibility, students can still achieve their educational goals this fall.
Keyphrase: college decisions fall 2023
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