BuddySystem

Using the buddy system is a must for college students, especially online students. Preferably, you would have a buddy in each class that you are taking. You need to find your buddy in the beginning of the course.

Not only does having a buddy make you feel more comfortable, but also it can really help you down the line. In an online course, I would suggest instant messaging someone in the class and starting a conversation with them. If you find that you have some things in common and a good rapport then ask them to be your buddy. If you don't find this, then move on to another student.

In you buddy you should find support, someone to share thoughts with, and someone to help you if you get stuck. It also helps to know how someone else in the class feels about the class. Often you might find that they feel confused or overwhelmed too. If you both feel that way, it makes it a lot easier to go to the professor together. Plus, if you ever have to miss class then you know your buddy will fill you in on what was discussed and they can expect the same from you if they are out.

I used my buddy to help me understand aspects of instant messaging. It made me feel better when she had the same problems that I had, but was able to figure them out. I saved time from learning from her mistakes.

You should still keep you professor in the loop. If you really aren't getting a concept you need to discuss that with your teacher. But, it is nice to have someone who is in the same boat as you. Hopefully, you have family support while you are in school. But no one really understands all that you are doing unless they are doing it too.

-- MollyIngram - 03 Jul 2005