How To Be A Successful Student During A Pandemic

It’s no secret that our education system has been faced with disruption and unprecedented challenges in providing instruction to students during this global pandemic. Many schools have been forced to temporarily move their instruction online due to social distancing. Still, unlike times of the past, we can continue providing education even when our school buildings close.

At Northern Pennsylvania Regional College (NPRC), the health and safety of our students and community remained at the forefront of our minds during this pandemic. In March, we were able to quickly adapt to this new remote climate by moving our site-based teaching to a new, point-to-point delivery of education directly to our students’ homes. Because of this shift, technology resources were also provided to students who did not previously have access to secure broadband connections in their homes.

While NPRC has made the conscious decision to continue remote course offerings through Fall 2020, we still face some uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and the future of our education systems. One of the most important things to remember during this time is that you can always be in control of your learning. Whether you are in elementary school, middle school, high school, or college, your educational success is our number one priority. Here are some tips you can use to thrive in remote or online learning environments.

• Be prepared. Read your assignments before class, complete your homework, and be ready to respond to your instructors. With the limitation of in-person interaction, it’s sometimes easy to disengage during these difficult times. Now, more than ever, students need to stay engaged in their classes. You are responsible for your knowledge.
• Practice patience. Be patient with yourself; be patient with others. While we encourage you to remain positive and hopeful, we acknowledge that this is a significant disruption to many and being able to adapt may be difficult. Be patient and know that what you are experiencing is valid and that others may be experiencing it differently. We are all doing the best we can.
• Stay connected. Social distancing can feel very isolating. It doesn’t mean you are alone. Identifying other means of interpersonal communications and social connections can be a great way to stay connected with friends. Make a conscious effort to talk on the phone, video call, or get creative in how you adapt social activities into a digital form.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It is okay if you find yourself struggling to adjust to our “new norm.” In-person academic and emotional support may not be available, but many schools have set up new pathways and resources for students to get the help they need. Make use of the resources available to you. Your instructors or advisors can help you identify the resources that may be best for you.
• Be self-disciplined. We are finding for many people that the space they learn in is the space they work in and live in. Having a structure and practicing self-discipline can help you set boundaries and begin to maintain a new routine.

With the pandemic as well the vast social and racial unrest in the country, we know these are challenging times for all students, teachers, parents, and communities. We will come out of this better and stronger than ever if we can all stick together.

Enrollment for Summer and Fall semesters at NPRC is now open. Visit our website for more information!