Four Ways to Build Community While Attending School Online

Online education provides unmatched flexibility, and the ability to balance life’s commitments while earning a degree. However, one common challenge many online students face is feeling disconnected from peers. At University of Northwestern – St. Paul, we believe that building a strong community is essential for personal and academic success, especially in a virtual enviornment. Ready to enhance your online learning experience? Here are five practical ways to connect and foster relationships while attending school online:

1. Engage Actively in Online Discussions

Discussion boards are a valuable way to connect with classmates and professors. Use them to share your thoughts, respond to others, and ask questions that encourage deeper conversations. By actively engaging and contributing to discussions, you’ll start forming connections as you explore common interests, collaborate on group projects, find common ground, and build a sense of camaraderie through the class.

2. Form or Join Virtual Study Groups

Study groups are not just for on-campus students. Forming or joining a virtual study group can enhance your learning and help you meet new people. You can use tools like Zoom, Google Meet, or even FaceTime to connect regularly with your classmates. Joining a virtual study group offers several benefits beyond just academic support:

Accountability: Regular check-ins to stay on track with assignments and deadlines.
Diverse Perspectives: Discussing concepts with classmates can give you new insight and improve your understanding of coursework.
Motivation: Studying with others can make the process more engaging and less isolating, boosting your overall engagement with the curriculum. 
Skill Development: Virtual groups can sharpen your collaboration and communication skills, which is highly valuable in any professional setting.

3. Try to Attend In-Person Events

Even as an online student, attending in-person events on campus or within your community can create a deeper sense of connection. Online students can always come in person to attend Homecoming, sports events, chapel services, and Student Experience events to connect face-to-face with friends, classmates, and professorrs. These events are a great way to foster long-lasting relationships and feel more integrated into the university’s community. Meeting people in person can also make your virtual interactions more meaningful, so that you’ll have shared experiences to build on.

4. Utilize Social Media and Platforms like ZeeMee

Social media is a powerful tool for building community when attending school online. Follow your university’s social media accounts and join any official or student-run groups on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or ZeeMee. ZeeMee is a social platform for prospective students to connect with future classmates and build community before starting their education. These groups often provide updates on events, helpful resources, and a space for casual interaction with other students. By participating in these groups, you can stay informed and feel more connected to your peers.
Attending school online doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the sense of community that’s often found in traditional, on-campus settings. By being proactive and engaging in these opportunities, you can create meaningful relationships that enhance both your academic experience and personal growth.

Start your journey at University of Northwestern – St. Paul, where online students thrive in a supportive and connected community.