Adjusting to In-Person Learning
BY TIFFANY HO
Loved it or hated it, after a year and a half of online classes, we’re finally back in person! And honestly speaking, it’s been a rough transition. It’s hard to live life pre-pandemic when I’ve been isolated at home for so many months without socializing with many people in person. I had to relearn to put myself out there and meet all the people I’ve only ever seen on Zoom or Instagram. It’s overwhelming and unmotivating. It felt like it was just me and everyone else seemed to be adjusting fine for a little while.
But after speaking to more people, I realized it wasn’t just me who was feeling out of it. It’s been a rough transition for everyone, so if you’re feeling this way too, don’t worry, you’re not alone! Here are some ways that we’ve been adjusting to in-person learning after a year and a half of online classes:
Use Google Calendar
Google Calendar is a must-have! From a year of being isolated, we all have to relearn to socialize while still keeping up with school assignments. The best way to stay on top and not get overwhelmed is to keep a calendar of all classes, social events, and club meetings.
Write down all your deadlines
It’s so easy to forget to do assignments now that the city is alive again. There’s so much to do and see – make sure to write everything down and regularly check your deadlines.
Set aside a designated time for work
School is always a top priority, and you don’t want to fall behind. So, even more than having all deadlines written down, make sure you’re actually doing the work. If you’re a morning person, set an hour or two before lunch to get a couple of assignments done and for some extra studying. If you’re a night owl, have some time after dinner where you’ll actually go to the library or any of your preferred studying areas. Some of our favorites include: 3rd floor quiet lounge, the bridge between KMEC & Tisch 4th floor, Bobst North reading rooms (for that picturesque Instagram view of Washington Square Park).
Speak to your professors
This one is harder. I remember during Zoom classes, I would leave right after the class ended, unwilling to deal with more Zoom fatigue. Now, it’s easier to speak to professors since they’re right there in front of us, but it’s harder to break out of the habit of leaving right away. It’s also difficult to gather the courage to speak to them, especially for shyer students! At the end of the day, professors are meant to be resources for you, and we’re all already here at NYU, so why not make the most of our academic experience! So actually get to know your professors and make yourself known to them. I know from personal experience that they can provide excellent guidance!
Ask for help
This is probably one of the most important tips here. Always ask for help if you need it. It’s easy to struggle and do everything yourself. I used to be too shy or embarrassed to go out of my way to ask others. But realize that other people have been in your spot too. As competitive as this environment may seem, your peers are there to support you. Make sure to go to office hours or reach out to the teaching assistants. You could even reach out to upperclassmen who have been in your shoes before.
I hope these tips have been helpful! Remember that you’re not alone here and that the whole USWIB community is there to support you. Feel free to reach out to me or coffee chat with any other board member if you want more tips!