What to expect when starting a virtual college?

Once the disarray caused by the pandemic subsides, the best thing since the sliced bread would be to return to traditional classrooms. But keeping the crisis in mind, the recent regulations and decisions of the governing bodies demand an about-turn and there is no arguing the toss! With most of the B-Schools and engineering colleges starting their online classes from the coming month, here we are with an intriguing piece on what you can expect from your virtual college. So roll-in to get down with the nitty-gritty of the new normal before the real deal.

With India leaping forward in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020, now 26 Indian departments are in the top-100 list for their subjects as compared to 21 institutions getting ranked in 2019. All thanks to the better teaching resources, peer interactions, financial aids, and faculty profile. But what next? Can we still have those constructive discussions with the professors? Can we still avail of the resources and experiment with our ideas to the best? Or do we need to take stock of all the restrictions the Corona pandemic has imposed? 

Well, it’s time to face reality. Take it one day at a time and make a fresh start. Sounds exciting or feeling nervous? Let's hit it and put an end to your burning curiosity.

Integrating a more engaging and intimating content

To bridge the gap between online and on-ground teaching, you can expect your virtual college to introduce a more interactive syllabus. The professors would likely focus on conducting shorter classes interspersed with engaging activities. And if you are thinking, that by being online you can escape the bombarding questions of the faculty, then sorry for lowering your hopes. Why? Think this way, there will be no back seat in the virtual college. Everyone will be looking straight into the eyes of the faculty, thus none spared! 

Hack: Get your act together and participate in as many activities or discussions as you can. This will not only keep you away from any distractions but also keep you in the good books of the professors. Also, do not forget to stay updated on the relevant online courses.

Once and for all: Virtual events

This may sound futuristic, but virtual events are being conducted since time immemorial. But it cannot be gainsaid that the pandemic has given them a big push since 2020. As more events pivot online, the edutech industry and social media are coming up with a lot of creativity and innovation. Whether it is a summit, competition, cultural fest, conference, or even celebrating any achievement - virtual events have got you covered.

Hack: If you are already a member of the Dare2Compete family and have registered, you don’t have to be a bundle of nerves. If not, then sign up and stay tuned to the latest events across the student community.

Yes, you need to network

The importance of networking cannot be magnified and highlighted enough. Everything you do right now in your virtual college, from sending emails or text to your seniors or professors to making calls, will leave a lingering impact on them. The question is about how you make them feel and still make the best out of it. Yes, you cannot visit them personally and clear your doubts or take suggestions but that doesn’t mean you remain devoid of this one-of-a-kind exposure. You can beat it up by staying on your toes and interacting with them whenever you feel. Do NOT feel hesitant to approach your faculty. 

Hack: Apart from building a good academic network, make full use of these two networking tools - Linkedin and Twitter to weave an influential community from day 1 of your virtual college.

The tussle of distractions and glitches

Somedays will easily fly by and others will linger on and on. Let’s face it: Staying at home round-the-clock is no less than a mine of distractions. And in fact, not everything you will do will be fun. At times the lectures and assignments will bore you to death. Hold on, not only this, how can you forget about the technical bugs? “Am I audible” and “Is my screen visible” will be your go-to dialogues. The agenda of mentioning these points is not to daunt you but to gear you up for it. 

Hack: There is no dearth of articles on how to use online tools like a pro and how to avoid distractions. Look out for them before the distractions and the glitches drag you to deep crevices. Also, don’t just manage your time, own it with Pomodoro Technique. What is it? Read here.

Lockdown lifestyle woes

This is the scenario you will face most often during your virtual college: Intrusion into weekends and holidays, a spate of assignments, longer working hours, and obliteration of boundaries between social and work-life. Yes, virtual mode comes with side effects. If not managed sprucely, all of this can lead to anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and body aches. But we are all caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, isn’t it?

Hack: Getting me-time or family time is a must to survive this crisis. You can escape this burnout by laying down certain principles and following a strong action plan. Check out the all-time best hacks to make work from home easy and fun on our blog. If followed religiously, these tips can vanish all your stress into thin air.

After this? You are prepared for your virtual college. Good Luck!