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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.
Formally Ashford University currently attending Walden University
June 21, 2024
Shyia Dorsey
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.
Ochumare Global LLC, Nurturers of Love Youth Choices, Separation of Voices Foundation, Omnipotence Tax and Multi-Services.
What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
I found myself at a crossroads in life. I had always dreamt of pursuing a college education, but various circumstances had prevented me from doing so in the traditional way. However, the rise of online education provided a glimmer of hope for me.
The flexibility and accessibility of an online college education inspired me to pursue it. I was working full-time and had family responsibilities, so attending a traditional college seemed impossible. With an online education, I could create my own schedule and study from anywhere, allowing me to balance work, family, and education.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
When I initially decided to pursue my degree online, I was excited about the flexibility and convenience it offered. However, I soon encountered various challenges that tested my determination and perseverance.
One of the biggest obstacles I faced was time management. Balancing coursework with my other responsibilities proved to be more difficult than I had anticipated. I struggled to stay on top of assignments and readings while juggling work and family commitments.
To overcome this challenge, I created a strict schedule and dedicated specific blocks of time to my studies each day. This helped me establish a routine and ensure that I made consistent progress.
Despite these challenges, I overcame them by staying organized, seeking alternative forms of interaction, and developing my tech skills. The experience taught me valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability, and ultimately, it has made me a more resourceful and self-disciplined learner.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
Balancing my online coursework with work and family responsibilities has definitely been a challenging juggling act. I've had to carefully manage my time and prioritize tasks to stay on top of everything. One key strategy I've used is setting a strict schedule for myself. I allocate specific time slots for completing coursework, working, and spending quality time with my family. By sticking to this schedule, I've ensured that I give each aspect of my life the attention it needs.
Additionally, communication has been essential. I've made a point to clearly communicate with my family and employer about my online coursework and academic commitments. This has helped them understand my availability and has allowed me to receive the necessary support when needed. In terms of work, I've had to be proactive in managing my workload and deadlines, often working on assignments during evenings and weekends. It hasn't been easy, but with effective time management and prioritization, I've stayed on track with work and studies.
Overall, discipline, open communication, and adaptability have been key to balancing online coursework with work and family responsibilities. It's an ongoing process, but I'm constantly refining my approach to ensure that everything gets the attention it deserves.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
When I decided to pursue a college education online, I wasn't sure what to expect. I had always thought that traditional on-campus learning was the only way to get a quality education. However, as I delved into my online courses, I began to realize the many benefits of this mode of learning.
First and foremost, the flexibility of online learning has been a game-changer for me. With a full-time job and other responsibilities, I found it difficult to attend regular on-campus classes. But with online learning, I could study and complete assignments at my own pace, fitting my education around my schedule rather than the other way around.
Another benefit I discovered was the access to a wide range of courses and programs. I could choose from a variety of subjects and even pursue specific certifications or degrees that may not be available at local colleges. This flexibility allowed me to tailor my education to my interests and career goals.
Additionally, the online learning environment provided a unique opportunity for me to develop self-discipline and time management skills. Without the structured schedule of on-campus classes, I had to learn how to prioritize my studies and stay motivated to keep up with the coursework.
Despite some initial skepticism, pursuing a college education online has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. The flexibility, variety of courses, and development of essential skills have made me realize that online learning is a valuable and effective way to further my education.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
During my online classes, staying motivated and engaged has been essential for my success. One strategy I've used is setting specific goals for each study session. These goals include my grades and how much time I should spend studying to master the coursework. Whether completing a certain number of assignments or understanding a particular concept, having clear objectives keeps me focused and motivated.
Additionally, I make sure to take regular breaks to prevent burnout and maintain my energy levels. Another helpful strategy has been active participation in online discussions and group projects. By sharing ideas with classmates and receiving valuable feedback, I stay engaged and motivated to contribute meaningfully to the class.
Finally, I've found that maintaining open communication with my instructors has been crucial. Seeking clarification when needed and building a rapport with them has helped me stay connected and committed to my online learning journey.
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?
When organizations like Sigma Chi Psi Sorority and Gamma Sigma Gamma Fraternity make efforts to bridge the social gap for students pursuing their education online, it signifies a dedication to inclusivity and community support. As a student who has experienced the challenges of online learning, I understand the isolation and lack of social connections that can come with it. These organizations' initiatives help to create a sense of belonging and companionship for online students, showing that they are valued members of the academic community. By fostering connections and providing opportunities for networking and socializing, these efforts contribute to a more enriching and fulfilling educational experience for online students.
What significance does socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
Socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service are important for me. To me, these activities are not just about meeting new people and making connections, but they also provide opportunities to give back to the community and positively impact others.
I believe that engaging with a diverse range of individuals through socializing and networking allows me to broaden my perspectives, learn from others, and gain valuable insights that I wouldn't have had the opportunity to experience otherwise. Meeting new people helps me to expand my social circle, build meaningful relationships, and potentially open doors to new opportunities, both personally and professionally. Participating in events focused on community service is equally important to me. It allows me to contribute to causes that are meaningful to me and make a difference in the lives of others. Engaging in community service activities helps me cultivate empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. It also provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose, knowing that I am actively contributing to the well-being of others and the betterment of society as a whole.
Overall, socializing, networking, and participating in community service events are significant for me as they enable me to connect with others, expand my horizons, and actively work towards creating a positive impact in the world around me.
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.