Who knew at the start of this second semester that life would get so crazy? Certainly most college freshmen and college professors did not anticipate this semester would be this way.

With coronavirus requiring a move from in-person to online, you may be expecting to return to basically the same semester. In many ways, however, the rest of this semester is more like a new semester. How so?

Below are 5 adjustments in this different end of this semester and tips on how to navigate this adjustment!

#1. Updated syllabi

Every in-person college class has experienced some sort of overhaul. While these classes were never meant to be online, your professors have quickly had to make them online classes.

In order to wrap your mind around classes moving online, you need to take a look at your online course pages. More specifically, you need to look at your updated syllabi. Each teacher has likely adjusted at least small elements.

Download each of these syllabi and get them organized. Get out your planner or open your app. Take the time to write (or type) each assignment on its assigned due date.

Because you do not have the accountability of in-person reminders and peer reminders, you can easily forget assignments and requirements. So, get your schedule organized to help yourself adjust to this practically-brand-new semester.

#2. Adjusted class schedules

Many colleges are condensing the semester into less time than the previously allotted time frame. As a result, assignments are getting moved, short lectures are being recorded, and more.

While you might be thinking about trying to keep to your regular college schedule as much as possible, know this might not work. You may have more success if you treat the remainder of the semester like its own thing.

Work to create a realistic and feasible schedule that helps you stay motivated and be productive. Below are some ideas that might help you adjust your different class schedules:

• Wake up earlier and watch classes before your home life gets noisy and busy.

• Study and work on assignments in one space that is not your bedroom, where you’re likely to fall asleep or get distracted.

• Share a Google task list (or something similar) with a friend for accountability.

• Schedule regular 20-minute breaks throughout your day, but do not allow your breaks to go longer than 20 minutes.

• Keep to a regular meal and sleep schedule.

• Ask questions earlier due to communicating mainly via email.

#3. Altered assessments

Many professors are adjusting their course requirements due to the changes in your college schedule. Be sure you are aware and informed of these changes by doing the following things:

• Read your syllabi. When in doubt, check your course pages for new information or instructions. Your syllabus is always the best resource for little questions.

• Check your college email regularly. Don’t let days go by without checking for new communication.

• Connect with other classmates. Your college likely has resources like Microsoft Teams to help you form groups, even study groups.

Although this adjustment is a pain (for you and your teachers), prepare yourself for some inconvenience and a learning curve. Try to assume the best about your professors and communicate often when you have questions.

#4. Condensed semester

The material that originally would’ve taken several weeks is likely being squished into only a handful of weeks. This wasn’t the plan for you or your professors.

While many teachers are trying to be flexible and understanding, no teacher is perfect. He or she is doing the best they can to still accomplish the course objectives and provide you with a quality education, but some professors may be asking a little more from you than others. 

Coming from a current college teacher, consider these responses to technology or coursework frustrations:

• Be understanding. Many teachers only had a handful of days to adjust several courses.

• Assume the best. Your teachers want you to succeed. If they are trying to keep your coursework rigorous, assume they have good intentions.

• Ask questions. Don’t suffer in silence! Send that email.

• Spread positivity. This situation isn’t ideal for you or your professors, but we’re all working to make this semester as good of an experience as possible. 

#5. Adapted final exams

Many colleges are moving up the dates of final exams, requiring online proctoring, or implementing other changes. All of these changes cause you to feel extra anxiety and pressure.

Take a deep breath. You are going to get through this, and your professors are going to do everything they can to help you succeed.

Even if your final exams aren’t a few weeks away, go ahead and look at when they are scheduled. Check what kind of material they will assess. Get as much of a picture as possible of what they will be like.

This semester, post-COVID-19, feels more like a new semester. Prepare yourself for this reality. You will face some bumps in the road, a lack of motivation, and a frustration with a lack of contact. But you can pass each class, build an online community, and finally reach the end of the semester having completed each course. You can do this!