Oct 11 2008
Tips for students in the military
One of the best aspects of attending class online is that it can work really well for members of the military who are stationed overseas. They can work toward their degree while serving at their military posts. However, like all busy folks working full-time and trying to attend school, military personnel should keep some important tips in mind.
Tips for military students:
- Communicate really well with your advisors and your instructors. Most instructors will be willing to work around some last-minute issues, like unexpected military missions and sudden power outages that come with being stationed at a military post. However, don’t just disappear for long stretches of time and then bounce back into class as if nothing happened. This sends a message to the instructor that you are being careless and carefree about the class – not the impression you want to make.
- Disclose your military status and be prepared to show proof. Right from the start of class, notify your instructor that you’re a member of the military and that there might be some instances where you will be missing some days of class. Most instructors will be reasonable when it comes to a few days here and there. However, if it’s more than that, you’ll really need a very understanding instructor. And you’ll need to work doubly hard.
- Prepare backup plans. If you’re in a place that experiences power or internet outages, you really have to set up some backup plans. Save some of the important Web pages of your class onto a portable flash drive so that even if there are internet interruptions, your class materials aren’t totally out of reach. Some important documents are: the syllabus, your advisor’s/instructor’s contact information, and the current week’s assignments. Remember, it’s not your instructor’s job to think of these things for you. You have to make it work.
- Take your class textbook everywhere. You never know when there will be some down time. Staying on top of your reading assignments will be a great, valuable asset.
- Strive to always finish your work EARLY. If you work is due on a Wednesday or a Friday, strive to finish it at least two days early. This way, if something comes up, you will have some leeway. Always cutting it close to the deadline is never a good idea for any student. For a student in the military, it’s an even riskier proposition.
Online classes work for many types of students if they accept and work within its parameters. There are times when it will be challenging and tough, but like all good things, it’s always worth it in the end. Good luck!
