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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.
National University
September 21, 2024
Renetta Hills
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, I am a business owner. Diversified Caring Homes, PLLC… my agency provide services for individuals intellectual disabilities.
What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
I was inspired to pursue an online college education because I needed flexibility while balancing being a business owner and a single mom. The traditional route just didn’t fit my life anymore, but I didn’t want to give up on my education. I started by researching programs that aligned with my goals and offered the flexibility I needed. Once I found the right one, I took the leap, trusting that I could manage both my responsibilities and my studies. It’s been challenging, but it’s also empowering to pursue my goals on my own terms.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is juggling my time between work, being a mom, and staying on top of my coursework. It can feel overwhelming, especially when unexpected things come up. To manage it, I’ve had to get really disciplined with my schedule and prioritize tasks. Another challenge has been staying connected in an online setting—it’s easy to feel isolated at times. I’ve learned to reach out to my classmates and professors more, even if it’s just through emails or discussion boards, to stay engaged. It’s all about finding balance and not being afraid to ask for help when needed.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
Balancing online coursework with other responsibilities like work and family has been a challenge, but I've found ways to manage it. I rely heavily on creating a structured schedule, blocking out time for both schoolwork and personal commitments. It’s important to stay organized, but also be flexible when unexpected things come up. I’ve also learned to set boundaries, making sure that when I’m working on school, I’m fully focused, and when I’m with family or working, I give them my full attention. It’s about finding a rhythm that works for me and making adjustments when needed.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
One of the biggest benefits of pursuing an online education is the flexibility it offers. Being able to set my own schedule allows me to balance my studies with work and family responsibilities in a way that wouldn’t be possible with traditional on-campus learning. It’s also taught me to be more disciplined and self-motivated, since I have to manage my time and stay on top of assignments without the structure of in-person classes. Another advantage is the ability to learn from anywhere, which has been a game changer for me as a business owner and mom. Online learning has given me the freedom to continue my education while still taking care of everything else in my life.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
Staying motivated and engaged in online classes requires a lot of self-discipline. One strategy I use is setting small, achievable goals each week to help me stay on track and feel accomplished. I also create a dedicated study space to help me focus when it’s time to work. Staying connected with my classmates and professors has been crucial too I make an effort to participate in discussions and ask questions, even though it’s a virtual setting. Another strategy is reminding myself of the bigger picture why I’m pursuing this degree and using that as fuel to keep pushing forward, even on the tougher days.
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 work to bridge the social gap for students pursuing online education, it signifies a strong commitment to inclusivity and community building. It reflects the importance of creating support networks and social connections, even in virtual learning environments, where students may feel isolated. These efforts ensure that online learners have access to the same sense of belonging, camaraderie, and mentorship traditionally found in on-campus settings, fostering a more enriched and balanced educational experience.
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 essential for both personal and professional growth. For me, these activities provide opportunities to build meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share similar goals. Networking helps expand my professional network, opening doors for mentorship, partnerships, and career advancement. Community service allows me to give back, stay grounded, and contribute positively to society. Together, these experiences foster a sense of purpose, belonging, and the ability to make a lasting impact.
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.