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As summer quickly approaches, RVCC - along with other colleges and universities--will continue offering remote learning in an effort to keep students, faculty and staff safe during the pandemic. Most students have embraced the flexibility and convenience of online classes. Now--nearly two months into distance learning--it’s safe to say that you’ve probably learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t for you. However, now is the ideal time to pause, pull back the lens and evaluate how you can improve your study schedule to ensure that you are being more effective. Read on to learn about RVCC’s top 7 tips to up your game this summer while taking online courses. To enroll in RVCC’s Summer Classes, click here. Hurry! RVCC’s Summer Session I begins May 18^th. Two other sessions begin on June 8th and July 6th. (All courses will be held online, including exams).

Tip 1: Become a Successful Time Manager.

With the flexibility to create your own schedule when taking online community college classes, you also have a lot more freedom and that can be detrimental if you don’t use good time management skills. Keep these pointers in mind as you plan and study:

• Get a bird’s eye view of what your semester will be like by entering all key deadlines from your syllabus into your calendar. From there, be sure to check your calendar daily to track your deadlines. This way, you can give assignments the time they require without adding stress to your life.
• Allot yourself a certain amount of time for each task before moving on to the next one and set a timer to keep you accountable. Spending too much time on one task may jeopardize the quality of your other projects. The more aware you are of your work load, deadlines and obstacles, the more likely you will be able to keep your learning on track.
• Aside from any minor adjustments you may make, stay committed to your schedule. The routine will keep you focused and operating efficiently, which is key! 

Tip 2: Don’t Venture Down the Rabbit Hole!

In order to maximize studying, you need to minimize your distractions in both your physical and digital environments. As far as the physical environment goes, only you know what works best. Continue to experiment to discover the setup that increases your productivity. Good lighting and comfortable seating should factor into your final selection. Plus, the warm summer weather may be tempting you to take advantage of that chaise lounge more than you should.

Tip 3: Pamper Yourself a Bit.

Whether you brew some of your favorite sun tea or coffee, listen to your favorite tunes on your study playlist, or find that cozy spot at home or even outside to be extra comfortable while you study, do something special for yourself in exchange for being productive.

Tip 4: Get Involved & Stay Involved!

The more involved you are during your online classes, the more invested you’ll feel and the more successful you will be. Be sure to participate in online discussions--whether it is to ask a question, validate a classmate’s opinion or comment on required reading. Address any challenges that you may be having as soon as possible. Set up a time to speak with your professor or tap into RVCC’s tutoring. Read more here.

Tip 5:  Build Connections!

By actively participating in online discussion boards, you can nurture connections with classmates. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to classmates or even create a virtual study group. And, if you need a break from studying, you can participate in RVCC’s Social Circles via Zoom to chat socially.

Tip 6: Utilize RVCC’s Online Resources & Support.

Stay connected with Raritan Valley Community College on Lion’s Den, the website or social media. Tap into RVCC’s Student Support Services that are available by going to: https://www.raritanval.edu/reopening-student-services.

Tip 7: Plan Ahead!

Summer is just around the corner. So, if you have not already, browse RVCC’s Summer Course Schedule and register here.  You can also participate in one of the many Information Sessions taking place throughout the month.   

If you’re wondering, “What is the best accredited community college near me?” Hands down, it’s RVCC! With its extensive selection of college degree and certificate programs, RVCC offers high quality education at an affordable cost!

About RVCC

RVCC has been ranked the best community college in NJ by WalletHub.com and Niche.com. Washington Monthly ranked RVCC eighth in the country in the category of “Best Colleges for Adult Learners (2 Year Colleges)” for 2018. As a leading state college in New Jersey, RVCC serves students locally from Somerset County and Hunterdon County, across the country, and around the world, offering top degree programs and the best local career training. For information, visit www.raritanval.edu.