Online classes aren’t a new concept; many students have been learning this way for years. However, it is true that not everyone enjoys it and not everyone is capable of learning this way. There are more distractions and the connection with the teacher or the classmates is not the same. Most of us need the classroom environment and the human interaction to do well in class. If that is your case, you might be scared of what comes next. Colleges do not know when they will open again, and a lot of them are thinking about doing their fall semester online as well.

I graduated college two years ago and I know this situation would have made me anxious back then. Nowadays, I think a lot about what I would have done, how I would have felt, and what I would have done differently in my studies. Because I have a brother and friends in college, I think about different ways in which online studying—or studying at all—could be made easier for them. By doing this, I thought of three ways in which things could change and allow students to give their best in every class.

Take Less Classes

This semester changed halfway through and you had to keep going, for the most part, with the same amount of classes you had started. If you found out that online classes are not for you, you could try taking less classes than you normally would. By adjusting your workload, you will be able to concentrate better and your performance will improve. Do not feel bad for needing to slow down because your mental health matters too. Find your rhythm and you will be able to accomplish your goals.

Choose Classes That Are Better Online

Most colleges will allow you to select classes for each semester, that way you are able to have a schedule that works according to your needs. If you know your entire semester will be online, choose to take classes that you know will work on virtual mode. As students, we know which classes need to be in a classroom because learning is made easier that way. So, when planning your next semester, think what would work better for you. If you are struggling with which classes to take, reach out to teachers, advisors and other students to ask for help.

Put Your Studies on Hold

Are you scared to continue your studies online? Do online classes give you anxiety? Are you struggling to succeed in your classes this way? Maybe you should reach out to your college counselor and ask them if there is a possibility to put your studies on hold. This way, you can wait to take classes once things go back to “normal" and you can physically attend your lectures. Not everyone can take advantage of online studying and there is nothing wrong with that. Figure out a plan that works for you and will allow you to gain the most from your college experience.

Every college journey is unique and you have to make it your own. You are the only one who can choose what way to go, what to do, and what kind of classes you can take at a given time. Allow yourself to experiment and try different things. Our current situation is very unique as well and only you know what is best for your studies. Take the time to think about what you want your next semester to be like. Make the right decision for yourself, for your college journey, for you well-being, and for your mental health.

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