Being an online student doesn’t mean your connection to the university is any less significant. In fact, many students of the Global Campus start forging meaningful relationships with staff and faculty well before their official admission. These connections not only enrich your academic journey but often continue to flourish long after you’ve donned your cap and gown. Here, we’ve curated some key strategies to help you maximize your engagement with NMU, ensuring that you get the most out of our diverse online degree programs.

Utitlize University Tools

Your NMU email account serves as the primary channel for all official university communications. It is crucial to begin utilizing this account following the completion of orientation and to continue doing so until your time at the university concludes. This ensures that you stay informed about vital updates and information from the university without missing any critical communications.

Be Open to Online Communication

Email is great for quick questions, but if you’re diving into the nitty-gritty, a call or video chat with your professors or advisor can make a world of difference. Just set up a time that works, and they’ll have a chance to give you the full lowdown, making sure you get the help you need without any of the back-and-forth.

Ask Questions

Whenever you have a question about a course you’re taking, contact your professor as soon as possible. The first few times, it can be intimidating to email or call a faculty member, but they welcome questions and appreciate students who take a proactive approach to their studies.

What if your question isn’t about a class? Your academic or Global Campus adviser is a great resource to connect you to broader resources at the university. They can either help answer your questions or direct you to the appropriate person on campus. The earlier you can establish a relationship with your advisers, the easier it will be to ask for help.

Ask for Clarification

What if you have questions about grades or feedback on assignments? Contact your online professor right away. Faculty are here to help and support you; they want to communicate with you. Keep in mind, the tone can be difficult to appropriately convey via email, and some conversations are best suited for a phone conversation. The best solution might be to start with an email to address the issue and request an appointment to speak on the phone or via Zoom.

Find Your Motivation

Staying motivated as an online student is key to your success. Here are some strategies to keep you driven:

  • Set Clear Goals: Start by setting clear, achievable goals for each study session, week, and term. Knowing what you’re working towards can give your studies purpose and direction.
  • Create a Routine: Establish a consistent study routine. A regular schedule signals to your brain that it’s time to focus, helping you get into the study zone more quickly.
  • Reward Yourself: Set up a reward system for completing tasks. Whether it’s a break with a favorite book, a walk, or a special treat, rewards can be powerful motivators.
  • Stay Connected: Engage with fellow students and participate in online discussions. The sense of community can spur you on, and you’ll feel more involved in the learning process.
  • Visualize Success: Take time to visualize the benefits of your hard work, like getting your degree or advancing your career. This mental imagery can provide an emotional boost and keep you focused on why you started.

Remember, motivation can ebb and flow, but with these strategies, you can keep pushing forward toward your educational goals.

 

These tips for engagement will also benefit you throughout your professional career. When you graduate, you can leverage your online experience to showcase your effective communication skills in the ever-changing working world. Employers today are realizing that working from home doesn’t need to be a temporary solution and are offering remote work options as permanent solutions. Completing a degree online and honing those communication skills can be a great foundation and preparation for working in a remote position. Check out our tips for managing work and school in the home.