Insights for Prospective College Students This Fall

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As a doctoral candidate and adjunct faculty member, I have some insights regarding the questions prospective college students should contemplate this fall. The ongoing effects of COVID-19 have left many uncertain about their academic futures. With individuals potentially being asymptomatic for up to two weeks and the availability of testing being limited, colleges face the daunting decision of whether to fully reopen.

Recently, California State University, the largest public university system in the nation, announced that it will conduct classes online this fall, though some hands-on courses, such as chemistry labs, may still occur on campus. Meanwhile, smaller institutions are opting for a return to in-person learning.

Reflecting on my experience of teaching and studying online, I found it more effective than I expected. While I prefer face-to-face interactions, I’m optimistic that the online format will improve this semester as educators have had more time to prepare.

If you’re an undergraduate weighing your options, here are five essential questions to consider:

1. What would my fall plan be in a typical year?
   It’s crucial to evaluate your intentions before exploring alternatives. Do you genuinely want to attend college? Be honest with yourself about your motivations.
2. What are my specific plans if I decide not to enroll?
   Merely spending time online is not a constructive goal. If you have a structured plan, taking a break might be advantageous. However, with the pandemic creating fewer internship opportunities—Google has extended remote work until 2021—what will you do instead? Consider options like working part-time, volunteering, or pursuing an apprenticeship. Setting milestones, such as enrolling in community college classes if you haven’t secured a job by a certain date, can help maintain focus.
3. What are my concerns about online learning, and are they justified?
   Many people find sudden changes difficult, especially when they lead to disappointment. It’s normal to feel down about missing social interactions or the excitement of campus life. Nevertheless, academic growth remains a core reason for attending college, and online courses can still facilitate that.

   The transition to online learning can encourage adaptability, a vital skill for future success. In my recent online classes, real-time engagement allowed for deeper understanding, and the flexibility to re-watch lectures proved invaluable. Many students attended from various locations, which even fostered early connections among classmates.

4. How can I optimize my experience this fall?
   For returning students, not being on campus can be disheartening, while freshmen may feel overwhelmed by uncertainty. The initial semester is often the most challenging, with around 30% of first-year students dropping out. Starting with online courses may help newcomers acclimate to college-level education. Community colleges offer quality instruction without the need for relocation.

   If you’re feeling uncertain, consider enrolling in a brief online course this summer or taking a fall class alongside a friend. To ensure opportunities for interaction, review syllabi for mentions of group work and be proactive in connecting with peers during classes.

5. What are the financial implications of my choices?
   As of 2017, graduates faced an average student loan debt of $28,650. Pursuing online classes at a community college or state university while living at home may be a savvy financial decision. General education requirements, such as math or public speaking, are typically transferable, so research carefully. If public speaking makes you anxious, consider tackling that requirement online sooner rather than later.

In conclusion, navigating the adjustments brought on by the pandemic is challenging for everyone. The effort a student invests in their education will significantly determine their learning outcomes. Although many prefer in-person classes, online learning remains a valid option during this period, allowing students to continue their educational journeys.

For additional insights on related topics, check out this blog post. If you are considering home insemination, this resource is an authority on the subject, and the CDC provides an excellent resource for pregnancy-related questions.

Summary

As a PhD student and adjunct professor, I encourage prospective college students to reflect on their fall plans amid ongoing uncertainties due to COVID-19. Key considerations include reevaluating motivations for college, planning alternative paths if not attending, addressing concerns about online learning, optimizing the educational experience, and understanding financial implications. The effort invested in education during this time will greatly influence outcomes.