There is a little bit over a month left of the spring semester at Saint Xavier. This semester has been really stressful for me, so I could not be happier that the semester is almost over. School is already stressful enough as is, and going to college during a pandemic is definitely not making it any easier.
I am currently taking all online classes this semester, and I can say that there are both pros and cons to this. I like having all online classes because I am able to stay in the comfort of my own home while I do my homework or join zoom classes.
I also do not have to drive all the way to campus which is also a plus. Unfortunately, there are more cons than pros for online learning during this time.
I am not sure if it is just me, but I feel like a lot of professors at Saint Xavier have been loading up the work more than they would have before the pandemic. One reason for this, is that it is possible that professors think students have more time on their hands, but this is not the case.
Many students, including myself, are working a full time job while also being a full time student. I can only speak for myself, but I do not have much free time on my hands.
It has become really difficult for me this semester to balance my two jobs, and 5 classes while also trying to maintain a social life. I wish more professors were understanding of the situation many students are in.
Another big disadvantage of online classes is that the communication between the students and the professors is not the same at all. In my experience, many professors do not make themselves readily available. I believe that during this time, they should ensure that they are checking their emails and responding to the students in a timely manner.
It is also important to mention that some students do not excel with online learning. Many students much prefer in person classes since it is more hands on learning.
It is also easier for students to ask questions about the course material if it is in a classroom setting. I know that I personally do not ask many questions about course material that I do not understand because I feel like I am bothering the professors.
I also understand that the professors are trying their best and doing what they can during this confusing and difficult time. Online learning is exhausting to both the students and the professors. Students and professors deserve a lot of credit for what they are doing during these challenging times.
I hope that college students everywhere are able to finish the semester off strong and use the summer as a time to re-energize themselves and prepare for the next semester.