Classes start up again today in a remote learning environment. Here are some tips and hacks to help students.

1.    Make a Schedule
Schedule specific times to study and work on projects. Use notifications on your calendar app to keep you on track and remind you where you need to be to meet your deadlines. A schedule helps you focus and manage your time.

2.    Find a Study Space
Create a designated place to study—a desk, a table or even a comfortable chair—where you have access to Wi-Fi and the other tools you need. Going to your study space prepares you psychologically to work. But you may have more than one space—on a warm spring day your backyard may be the best place to read that history book.

3.    Ask Questions and Engage
Your instructors miss the classroom dynamics and the feedback they get every bit as much as you do. Ask them questions, look for clarifications and reach out to them with issues or solutions. They are there for you and want to help however they can.

4.    Collaborate and Interact
Remote learning does not mean you are alone—your classmates and friends and students across the country and world are in the same situation. Find a study buddy in your class or a friend with whom to discuss assignments or share tips. Use social apps to connect and engage with others. 

5.    Motivate and Reward
Earning a college degree is an important step towards a fulfilling career and life. Remind yourself why you are studying, and what your long term and short term goals are. Use sticky notes to remind yourself where your college degree will take you. And don't be afraid to reward yourself when you finish an assignment or complete a test.