Alexa Ciprich, a hospitality major with a minor in communications, admits that online learning has been, and still is, a big adjustment for her. But the Rochester, N.Y., native, who plans to graduate in December, says that professors who have shown they care for the well-being of their students during this confusing time have made the process a bit easier. From being flexible with due dates, to uploading teaching materials onto a platform where they can be easily referred to, she says that there are positives, even in this situation.
“Due to this new online learning environment, I am able to reach some professors much easier,” she said. “Professors and faculty are online much more … and are also much more understanding if you cannot meet a certain deadline for any particular reason.” She noted that one professor has made it a point to email his students almost every other day to check in with them, and that others have made themselves available via email, phone call, or text. “This is extremely helpful when dealing with final projects, as well as knowing they are there if we need anything,” she said.
Alexa has had to transition to remote learning in a home with her two younger brothers, who are also learning online, and her parents, who are working from home. The distractions can be difficult, she said, but she is learning to adjust, as well as how to connect with others virtually, which “will be helpful in the future, no matter the situation,” she said.