5 Mistakes to Avoid as an Online University Student
College is an adjustment for any new student, especially for those attending an online university. Without the structure of an in-class setting, many students struggle to start their online university degree program on the right foot. To help you overcome some of the challenges, here are five common mistakes that online university students make at the beginning of their college career:
#1 Procrastination
With flexible scheduling and courses taken from home, it is all too easy to put off school work. Most online universities offer students the opportunity to take their classes asynchronously; meaning that they don’t have to log-in at the same time as professors or other students. Exams, assignments and studying are often done when it is convenient for the student. All of these factors create a perfect environment for procrastination – a habit that can ultimately ruin your chances of obtaining an online university degree.
How can you avoid it?
Establish a regular time and place to study – a structured schedule that you can adhere to. Determine where and when you are most able to focus on course work. Make a routine of logging-in to your online university each day and concentrating on any studying or assignments that you may have.
#2 Falling Victim to a Diploma Mill
The promise of an online university degree in a portion of the time at just a fraction of the cost of any other online degree is, in fact, too good to be true. These diploma mills are non-accredited organizations motivated only by making a profit. They award degrees with poor or no academic study. If you fall victim to a diploma mill not only will you be receiving a less-than-stellar education, but you could face pricey and embarrassing future consequences. People found to be using fake degrees can be declined employment, terminated from their jobs, or in some cases actually face criminal charges.
How can you avoid it?
The first thing to check when considering an online university is its’ accreditation. Proper national or regional accreditation ensures that you will be receiving a quality education. Read more about online university accreditation here. Other warning signs that you’ve encountered a diploma mill include:
- There is no physical address other than a P.O. Box
- You are able to pay extra for academic honors
- The application process doesn’t require any academic history
- Their URL does not end in .edu
#3 Shhhh! – You’re Too Quiet!
Too many students think that an online university degree is a way to get an education without ever having to interact with people. While an online program is certainly beneficial to those with social anxieties, a successful student will regularly ask questions, offer feedback and join in discussions. Getting to know the professor and other students can only benefit you both in class and in the future.
How can you avoid it?
Be an active participant. When you are required to participate in online forums, virtual lectures or group projects be sure to speak up and offer your thoughts. As challenging as it may be to just jump into conversation with people you don’t know in an environment that seems unfamiliar to you, it will help to make your online university experience that much more successful.
#4 Not Bothering to Transfer Credits
If you took any college-level courses while in high school, previously completed courses at a college or university, or have relevant work experience you may be able to earn credit towards your online university degree. Too often students are either unaware of these opportunities or are just too lazy to look into the transfer process.
How can you avoid it?
With just a little paperwork, you could save time and money by transferring those credits! Each online university has their own policy and deadline when it comes to transferring credits. Be sure to find out what those are while you are still in the application process and then follow through with all of the required paperwork.
#5 Turning Down Free Money
It sounds silly, but students continue to turn down free money by not researching what scholarships and grants may be available to them. Money in the form of grants and scholarships is available to every type of student interested in higher education; and that includes students interested in online universities.
How can you avoid it?
Do your research! There are countless resources on available scholarships and grants offered by your prospective online university, local businesses, non-profit organizations, private individuals and trusts. Ask your financial aid office, look in your local library, inquire with any organizations with which you belong, and start searching online. Remember to start this process early. Not only is the application process time-consuming, but the entry deadlines really vary.
