Iowa State students had the opportunity to experience online classes Tuesday due to a campus closure for extreme weather.
Shanee Saidu, a sophomore in public relations, was looking forward to starting the spring semester and was excited when she was notified that the first day of classes would be online.
“I was excited to be back,” Saidu said. “It’s a new semester, and I get a fresh start with my new set of classes. I was honestly relieved that classes were moved online. It was cold, and I was still getting adjusted from winter break.”
All of Saidu’s classes resumed in person Wednesday, helping her feel more motivated for the semester.
“I honestly was more motivated to return to in-person classes after being online. Plus, the weather was a little nicer, which also helped my motivation,” Saidu said.
However, for students in online sections, virtual classes will continue the rest of the semester.
Lizabeth Hamann is a business analytics and agricultural studies freshman taking BIO 2120, Principles of Biology II.
“I would say I am productive in online class simply because I am able to do all my work weeks ahead of time,” Hamann said.
Maris Cameron, a senior in journalism and mass communication, explained that not all classes are easy to take in the virtual environment, sharing that her sister was a theatre major, which made virtual classes difficult in times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think there’s something especially unique about being together,” Cameron said. “There are certain classes or different majors that require more of that in-depth, in person time.”
In the past, Cameron took MUSC 3040, History of American Rock ‘n’ Roll, and liked the flexibility she got to have.
“I think the benefits of that include getting to take a course at your own pace, on your own time, which is beneficial especially if you have a heavier credit level,” Cameron said.
Hamann said she tries to maintain a routine throughout the semester.
“I typically stay motivated by keeping a schedule and giving myself rewards for completing tasks,” Hamann said. “Allowing myself some screen time or a coffee for doing my work also helps me.”
“It’s important to have face-to-face interaction, whether it’s with your peers or your professors,” Cameron said. “I think it’s good to get out, it’s good for your mental health.”
For more information on Iowa State’s mental health resources, click here.
