Because of COVID many schools have been forced to do all online classes. Online classes seem fun and easy but the the harsh reality is that it isn't. I have taken many summer online classes and find them very different than what were doing this semester. I am someone who is a big hands on learner and likes being in a classroom setting. I'm not going to lie this being my senior year and all my classes being online I am having an issue. It just doesn't seem fun and I don't feel like I'm learning to my full potential. But I do have some things that have made it easier for me.

Do not attend lectures in your bed. This is my biggest rule that helped me. Trust me its tempting when you don't need to put your camera on and school can happen wherever. But try and find a location other than your bed. It is super important to separate your relaxing space and your learning space. I like doing my work on my dining room table. This gives me my own space and makes me get out of bed and get ready for my day.

Acting like it's a normal school routine is important too. Get out of bed get ready for the day. Do your makeup (if you want of course) and have a balanced breakfast. Plan your day in the morning so you are aware of what you are doing for that day. Now I don't do this everyday so its okay if you just want to attend lectures in sweatpants. Because I know I do it.

Please put your phone away. Not even away put it in a completely different room. I noticed when lectures first started I was on my phone a lot, doing nothing really. I realized I never did this in in person classes. So I started putting my phone in the kitchen during lectures and sometimes when I'm doing homework. I also put my watch on do not disturb. This allows me to have limited distractions and pay close attention to my lectures like I normally would.

Try and make connections even if your classes are on zoom. It's not required but nice to make a few friends in your classes. In case if they or you have any questions about the class. You could even have virtual homework "dates." It doesn't hurt to make friends this is college anyway

Online classes are never ideal but we must make the best of it anyway we can. I hope soon hybrid classes might become an option. I miss learning in a classroom.