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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.
Indiana Tech
August 15, 2023
Tina Outlaw
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.
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What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
I wanted to be in a position to better market myself for promotions or seek better paying opportunities. In order to do so I recognized the need to educate myself further. I began looking for colleges in my area that offered online classes that would work around my work schedule and also offered programs that I was interested in.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
So far my only challenges have been writing papers, I don’t feel I am very strong in that area. So I pencil out time each day specifically for homework. I don’t allow myself to get overwhelmed or anxious about my workload.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
Being a single woman with adult children hasn’t created much issue for me, school and work so far seem to balance out. I am very disciplined about keeping a schedule for my school work.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
For me being able to work at my own pace. Not having to sit inside of a classroom.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
Schedules. Reminding myself of what my goal is.
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?
Unity. Not being excluded because we’ve made a choice to pursue our education a little differently than what’s considered normal.
What significance does socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
I found that when I volunteer I have a sense of satisfaction and purpose. It gives me great pleasure.
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.