The Top 5 Fears of Online Students — and How to Overcome Them
So you’ve finally made the decision to return to school — you think. While you are excited about the possibility of finally earning that advanced degree, you might be apprehensive about certain aspects of going back to school. From technology terror to financial fears, many potential students are uncertain about going back to school — but there is no reason to let these common concerns keep you out of the classroom.
Technology Worries
Sure, you know how to turn on a computer. You can perform basic functions, but when it comes to attending an online class, are you apprehensive about the technological requirements? Will you even be able to log in to the class, never mind participate in discussions and turn in work? And what if the class has additional requirements, such as video chatting or multimedia presentations? If you’re not exactly confident in your computer skills, the idea of online classes can be anxiety-inducing.
The good news? Most online classes are managed on user-friendly, intuitive platforms. Understanding that new students might be unsure where to start, most schools require, or at least encourage, new students to watch online tutorials before classes start to familiarize themselves with the classroom functions. And worst case scenario, your school will offer technical support, allowing you to ask questions and get help whenever necessary.
“I’ll Be With a Bunch of Kids”
Older students returning to school after a stint in the working world are often apprehensive about their fellow students. They fear that their classes will be filled with younger, hipper students who will make them feel old or out of touch — or perhaps worse, that the other students will be more experienced, smarter and better prepared for advanced study.
The truth is, it’s hard to predict who will be in your classes. However, instead of seeing the other students as threats, embrace their diversity. One of the greatest benefits of online study is the fact that you can learn with and from students from all over the country — even the world — who come from a wide range of backgrounds. And who knows? Maybe that young guy with only a few years of experience under his belt will have just the perspective you need to solve a thorny problem in your current job.
“What Are They Talking About?”
One of the most common fears of any student heading into graduate school is that the subject matter will be too difficult, especially if the student is studying in a new field. It’s a valid fear, but bear in mind that you displayed enough aptitude for the admissions committee to let you in to the program, and that the whole point is for you to learn. If you’re concerned about certain subject areas, such as math-based courses, take a refresher course at your local community college to get you up to speed. Beyond that, ask questions, read everything you can and pay attention to lectures. You will be successful.
No One Can Do It All
Work. Family. Community responsibilities. Managing your home. You already have a lot on your plate, and now you want to add school too? Many students aren’t sure how they will manage when they go back to school. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for keeping all of the plates spinning, but expect that you will have to make some lifestyle changes in order to fit your studies into your life. Ask for support from the people in your life, knowing that your time in school will be temporary and that the benefits of your education will far outweigh any sacrifices you make in the short term.
Who’s Going to Pay the Bills?
Finally, another common concern among returning students is money, not just in terms of paying for courses, but in managing their bills while they are in school, especially if they take time off from work or scale back hours. When looking at your advanced study options, use online MPA program resources (discover more here) to determine the overall cost of your education and learn more about financial aid that might be available to you. Take time to develop a budget, and again, realize that the temporary effects of cutting back will be worthwhile when you have that degree in your hand.
Overcoming your fears of returning to school and successfully earning your advanced degree will only sweeten your accomplishment once you finish your program. So before you give up on your dreams, consider why you’re apprehensive, and determine whether you’re letting unfounded fears hold you back.
About the Author: Corrine Shuman earned her master of public administration degree by taking classes online, which allowed her to balance a busy schedule of working full time for her local city hall and raising three boisterous children.
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Category: College
