Before you say anything, I know — this whole “virtual learning” thing is not the most ideal situation and it is not the way many of us wish we would be spending our college experience. We can’t ignore the emotions we are all facing, but we also can’t change the circumstances (besides wearing a mask, of course). What we can do is trust the phenomenal faculty and staff we have here at DePaul University and the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business. Our professors and advisors are working diligently to provide us a sense of security, understanding and support, which I know the current student body is incredibly grateful for.
This time we are going through will bring immense levels of challenge that go beyond our course content, so it is important that each student is doing what they can to better prepare themselves. Below is a checklist that has helped me optimize my productivity while taking virtual classes. We might as well make the most of it!
1. Find your own space
Finding your own study space is a valuable tactic while completing lectures, class Zoom meetings, appointments and homework. There is much to be said about making an at-home space as similar to a classroom setting as much as possible. Everyone’s space circumstances differ, so whether it is an entirely different room or a small desk in your bedroom, having a designated destination for school work will get your mind and body ready for anything the school day brings.
Personally, I have transformed a spare room in my house into a little home office. I made this experience an opportunity to have some fun by redecorating this room into a comfortable school work sanctuary. This space prepares my mind for my responsibilities each day.
2. Communicate with professors
This, by far, is one of the most powerful tools I have implemented in my quarterly routine. Since we can’t meet face-to-face, it’s important to me that I grow and develop connections with my professors. Prior or within the first week of classes, I take time to reach out to each professor I have that quarter. I send them a professional email introducing myself and asking if they would be available to connect via Zoom (Zoom is a personal preference; others might continue to communicate in an email thread).
Opening the line of communication, breaking the ice and having a conversation with your professors will not only benefit you throughout the quarter with your studies, but it’s a great networking tactic as well. It is quite inspiring to feel the support and care of the Kellstadt faculty. This is where your network grows, so water these professional relationships and opportunity will bloom! I promise you — your professors will recognize the effort and admire your dedication, helping you make the most of your grad school experience.
3. Connect with classmates
I am currently enrolled in the Full-Time MBA program and there is not a single day that I don’t recognize and express gratitude for my classmates. Graduate school is a unique and challenging time in all our lives and it’s an honor to be learning alongside such extraordinary and intelligent students. DePaul introduces us to one another, allowing us to form lifelong friendships.
The relationships you make at Kellstadt will be of great value to your learning experience. Being virtual has directed us toward great technological tools, making it easy and accessible to communicate in small or large groups about projects, course content, student organizations and virtual events. My classmates and I also use Slack and GroupMe to communicate. If you are not yet familiar with these tools, no need to worry. Download them and you’ll learn them in no time.
4. Stay organized
Organization will be your lifestyle hack while taking classes virtually. Whether it’s a notebook planner, your mobile phone calendar, Post-it Notes, etc., planning your responsibilities on different timelines will help you prioritize and practice successful time management. Bring out the highlighters, Sharpies and more. This is another great opportunity to get creative and have fun with planning.
5. Ask for help
People are sometimes mistaken when attending graduate school. Yes, it comes with rigorous courses and new challenges, but you are most definitely not alone in the process. Kellstadt has phenomenal faculty and staff, so there is always someone available to help you reach your goals by assisting you toward your utmost potential. Just because you’re in graduate school now, it does not mean you can’t ask for help. We are always learning something new.
In addition, don’t be afraid to provide feedback to your professors. Though Kellstadt has always offered online courses, virtual learning is new to some professors and staff, as well. Take advantage of these conversations and provide feedback on how your courses are going or where you feel students could use more support.
6. Take breaks
…Because even graduate students need to manage their personal lives. These breaks will help your mind decompress, relax and ultimately, obtain more information in the long run. Make it a priority to plan 15- to 30-minute breaks into your daily schedule.
Marisa Farella is a current MBA Candidate and Graduate Assistant at Kellstadt Graduate School of Business. She graduated from DePaul University in 2018 with her Bachelor of Arts degree in public relations and advertising, making her a proud soon-to-be Double Demon. In addition to her studies, Marisa has taken her love for writing and creativity a step further. She is the self-published author of her debut collection, “Truth or Dare: Poetry,” which is available on Amazon.
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