Jan 18 2009
Overcoming Internet Connection Issues
Internet issues strike online students all the time. The local cable company decides to rewire your block during finals week. A water main break shuts down half of your town’s basic services.
When you have assignments due and the internet service at home is dead, what do you do? Always – and I mean always — have backup.
Internet backup tip list:
- Keep an updated list of local internet sources. Keep a printed list of at least ten places where you can go if your home internet dies. This list should have detailed hours of operation and any fees/restrictions noted.
- Go Wireless at the Public Library. Did you know that a large number of public libraries now have wireless internet access? Even if the library is closed, the signal often reaches the parking lot or front steps. If you have a laptop, accessing the library’s system is quite simple.
- Go to private libraries. If you have a local community college, you’ll find that they often allow any student access to the library, although you won’t be able to check out books. You might come last in line to that particular school’s students when it comes to computer access, but later at night, the library usually clears out.
- Tap into your friend/family network. Before every term begins, pick three family members and/or friends, and ask them if they would be your backup internet source. Friends and family work out well on your backup list because they are a bit more flexible when it comes to late night hours, etc.
- Make arrangements at work. If you have a good, cool manager, then ask them if you can work on school work during lunch and/or after hours in case your home internet service goes down. This option only works if you have a positive working relationship with your boss. If not, don’t bother.
Of course, immediately notify your advisor and your instructors when you are experiencing such challenges. While they will not often be flexible for such issues, they will appreciate that you let them know, and most of them might surprise you with lesser point penalties or some briefly extended deadlines.
There are no guarantees, but a student who communicates professionally and proactively often gets opportunities that careless students do not.
