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The Digital Connection highlights students from various educational institutions and alumni. The opportunity to participate is optional and open to the public. Email support@scpandgsg.org for more information.
Elizabeth City State University
January 12, 2024
Tanasia Mattox
Thank you for taking the time to participate in our digital article series, The Digital Connection. Your willingness to share your journey helps bring greater visibility to the experiences of online students and highlights the growing need for inclusive opportunities, like fraternity and sorority involvement, within virtual learning environments.
Before we start, we like to highlight business owners as part of our commitment to supporting small businesses. If you are a business owner, we invite you to share your business name, website, or any relevant details, so we can help amplify your work alongside your personal story.
Yes, TX3 Vending & Obsessive Collextion
What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
Online courses offer a much more flexible schedule than traditional on-campus classes. Students can take classes at their own pace and on their own time, which can be especially appealing to working professionals and/or stay-at-home parents. I started by reaching out directly to the college and learning more about the programs and initial requirements. While I had gone to college before, online was different and I had to take both, a reading/English and math placement test prior to being able to register for classes. I went to complete both tests as soon as I could, met with an advisor, and was all registered.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
The first challenge was very disheartening. I transferred from a 4 year college after about 2 years to a 2 year community college and discovered none of my classes were transferrable. I had to start from the very beginning. From there I have experienced, on separate occasions, submitting my work on time for an entire semester that went without being graded until the end of the semester to be given all F's because the professors stated the formatting was either incompatible with their device of the document opened blank. I appealed the cases and put up the best fight I could, but unfortunately lost my financial aid due to the drop in my GPA. Little did I know it was a blessing in disguise. I took some time off because my pride was really hurt. When I was ready, I applied to another community college and was welcomed with open arms and support. I completed multiple certificates then ultimately my associates degree. After graduation I took more time to myself before enrolling into a bachelors program. Seven months in, right before midterms, my oldest daughter suffered from a horrible accident causing her to lose vision in one eye. School and everything else was put on the back burner. The night of the incident we were transported approximately two hours away where we had to stay for a week until she was stable enough to go home. By that time, midterm grades were submitted and I was marked at risk due to missing work. The alert went ignored as my child's' well being is my priority. Having found the time, I contacted my university and explained my situation;granted I was able to complete the missing work and earn credit, it fueled me to do my absolute best for the rest of the semester because I felt as if I was not going to have a second chance. Needless to say, I earned my place on the Chancellors List for that semester.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
I have always been blessed to work in the field that I am currently studying and having an understanding employer that has allowed me to complete assignments during downtime. When it comes to balancing online coursework with my family, I'll typically complete my assignments alongside my children with their homework after school. Other times I'll use are late nights after bedtime, early weekend mornings and outside play with their dad.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
You can pursue an online degree from anywhere in the world, eliminating the need to relocate or commute to a physical campus. This can be especially beneficial for students living in remote areas or those who travel frequently. You can access lectures, readings, and assignments anytime, anywhere with an internet connection. Online programs often have lower tuition fees than traditional on-campus programs. This is because online programs typically have lower overhead costs associated with physical facilities and campus services.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
I stay motivated by constantly reminding myself that completing this degree will open doors to rooms that I belong in. As far as engagement, we normally will have an open discussion running the entire semester that'll allow students to ask questions, share ideas and resources, and create study groups; from time to time I'll pop in and share my thoughts or maybe read what others are saying to ensure I'm not missing anything. To ensure my success, I am completing assignments weeks in advance, reading over the syllabus to make sure nothing has changed, and reading over the instructors feedback for any suggestions.
What does it signify to you when organizations like Sigma Chi Psi Sorority and Gamma Sigma Gamma Fraternity attempt to bridge the social gap for students who are pursuing their education online?
Online students might face unique challenges, such as balancing work and family obligations with their studies. These organizations can offer support networks and mentorship opportunities, helping students navigate their academic journey and connect with peers who can empathize with their specific struggles. Beyond social connections, these organizations often involve philanthropic activities and leadership roles. This can equip online students with valuable skills and experience, boosting their confidence and preparing them for future success in both their academic and professional lives. Traditionally, Greek life has been associated with physical campuses and residential communities. These organizations offer an alternative model, demonstrating that the values of brotherhood, sisterhood, and service can extend beyond campus walls and embrace the growing population of online learners. By building a community specifically for online students, these organizations address a gap in traditional Greek life, which may not be easily accessible to those who cannot physically attend a campus. This fosters inclusivity and ensures that online students have access to the same benefits and opportunities as their on-campus counterparts.
What significance does socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
Both networking and socializing matter because they can help you develop your interpersonal skills, expand your horizons, and improve your well-being. Networking can help you gain access to resources, opportunities, and mentors that can boost your career growth and leadership potential. Events provide a platform for me to share my knowledge and insights with a wider audience. This can contribute to educational initiatives, raise awareness about important issues, and foster collaboration on critical challenges. Participating in community service events, even virtually, allows me to contribute to social good and address pressing needs. This aligns with my purpose to be a helpful and beneficial tool for society.
Thank you again for being part of The Digital Connection. Your voice adds depth and meaning to this series, and we’re honored to share your perspective. We look forward to amplifying your story and continuing to build a platform that reflects the diverse journeys of online learners everywhere.