EDITOR’S NOTE: Since the pandemic began, and physical distancing guidelines sent many of us into relative isolation, much of the world has moved online. The transition has come quickly and created challenges of various sorts. For example, finishing the school year at home was taxing on both students and parents. As summer begins and the next school year awaits, we still don’t know what to expect. But we can learn from those who have more experience navigating the virtual world. Here, in a new kind of blog post for us, teenage contributor Lindsey shares some tips for other teens on successfully navigating the online learning environment and embracing an attitude of self-care. At the end, we also share a link to some resources for teens that we have posted to our Get Help Directory.
By Lindsey Horsman (pictured, far right, with friends)
I’m a junior at an online high school, and the end of this extraordinary school year brings new questions and uncertainty. What’s summer going to be like during a pandemic? Will I be able to go to the pools? What will the next school year look like?
Normally, I’d be preparing to see and meet new people during summer Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) classes at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn. But it looks like Normandale’s classes will remain online for now, due to the ongoing risks associated with the coronavirus. Of course, I’m used to online classes. That’s been my high school norm for three years, and I like it for a variety of reasons. It works for me. But summer is usually the time for my change of pace, when I catch up on the social interaction I’ve been missing and don’t have to be glued to email awaiting assignments, deadlines, feedback and answers to my questions from my professors.. This summer looks to be different, and it’s disheartening and a bit anxiety-provoking.
PSEO classes are college-level and, therefore, look good on applications to prospective colleges, but I’m questioning whether I’ll even be able to do well this summer. Should I do something else? I don’t pride myself on my grades, but I do work hard for them and am proud of the effort I put into them. Putting myself into a situation that I’m not feeling up to, and in which I might fail, is scary.
These are just a few of the thoughts that have been swirling around in my head this spring. Maybe you, if you’re a teen, or your child, if you’re a parent of a teen, is facing similar anxious quandaries.
Personally, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s best to take the pressure off myself. Maybe we don’t need to take that advanced placement class or extra college class. Online classes during the regular school year are hard enough. If my prior summer plans are no longer possible and the only option is one that might challenge my mental health, maybe I need to prioritize my well-being.
That’s exactly what I’m going to do. I’m going to talk to my counselor and make a plan so I’m still able to meet my graduation requirements on time. This summer, though, I’m going to ease up on my expectations, put off worrying about next semester until it arrives, and try to have fun, enjoy the summer and celebrate the accomplishments of finishing the school year—amid a global pandemic, no less! We have achieved a lot during these uncertain times.
If you’re in a different situation and are taking online classes this summer, or looking ahead at the possibility of more virtual schooling in the fall, do your best to manage expectations, anxiety and the school work itself. Here are some tips from my three years of online high school, which may be useful …
Online school is HARD. You’re learning more independently, but don’t be afraid to reach out to your teachers. Teachers want to help you learn and succeed in class. Some are new to this too, and they want to make it as easy and productive as possible for both of you.
Pace yourself. I know that sounds like a cliche, but it’s true. After finishing a hard lesson, take a break. If you continue to push yourself, you’re only going to get more frustrated, and that will be reflected in your work.
Don’t procrastinate. Seriously. Just open the lesson or content to at least see what you’re getting into. Chances are, it’s not as hard as you expected and/or it won’t take as long as you think. I’ve put off so many projects to find out they really weren’t that big of a deal. And after you finish, reward yourself with some chocolate or a TV break.
Make time for class. If you normally spend eight hours at school, it’s going to take you eight hours to complete your schoolwork at home, too. If you wake up at noon, you’re going to be studying and working late into the night.
Do your favorite or easiest class first. Getting started is the hardest part. Once you do, you’ll find it’s easier to work, and the best way to do that is by starting with the favorite or easiest class.
Most of all, whether online or not, learn to take care of and be good to yourself. Have a great summer!
Lindsey Horsman is a junior in high school and lives in Minnesota.
