In anticipation of our community’s continued transition to a distance-learning model, we’re interviewing members of our community who have had positive experiences in virtual learning environments. Our hope is to provide firsthand knowledge that may help other John Jay community members thrive.
After growing up in Cooperstown, New York, home of the Baseball Hall of Fame, Michaela Marmorato ’21 knows that when life throws you a curveball, you readjust your stance and swing for the fences. The Fraud Examination and Financial Forensics major transferred to John Jay in 2019 after realizing her previous college wasn’t the right fit for her. “I decided to transfer to John Jay because of its unique programming, urban campus, and extensive list of classes available to take online,” she says. The distance-learning opportunities offered by John Jay meant that Marmorato wouldn’t fall behind on her studies, she could reduce her commute time and expenses, and she could still graduate on time. “Online classes allowed me to stay on track to graduate within four years,” she says. “It gave me the opportunity to work full-time and do my coursework when I was off from work, and it subtracted travel time from my day which was a major help.”
“Anytime a problem arose pertaining to either coursework or Blackboard issues, my professors were very responsive and helpful in determining how to approach the issue.” —Michaela Marmorato
Transitioning Hiccups are Normal
With John Jay students transitioning to distance learning, Marmorato has complete faith that her peers will not only acclimate to the new digital learning environment, but that they’ll also succeed. “Everyone struggles with their first online learning experience,” she says, noting that difficulties at the start are a normal part of the process. “But the fear of taking an online class is more daunting than actually taking the class itself. There are many resources offered to help you through it. Anytime a problem arose pertaining to either coursework or Blackboard issues, my professors were very responsive and helpful in determining how to approach the issue, and if they couldn’t solve the problem themselves, they were very helpful with pointing me in the right direction of who to contact.”
Understanding the Current Circumstances
Patience, empathy, and understanding will play a vital role during this transition process, according to Marmorato. “Under the current circumstances, many students are taking multiple online classes, upwards of five to six at once, and that can be overwhelming,” she concedes, offering students some guidance. “Students need to be gentle with themselves and take it slow. Begin by writing everything out from the syllabus on a calendar. Being able to see everything that is due for all of your classes is extremely beneficial for time management and prioritizing.” Adding that communication is key, she suggests maintaining open lines of communication. “Always keep in touch with your professors and classmates. Online learning is new to many students and professors will be understanding of those who don’t have reliable internet access and those who are struggling. And, it’s important to remember that professors may even be struggling with the online platforms themselves. This process is a learning experience for everyone.”
“Take frequent breaks. They are necessary to maintain focus and your well-being.” —Michaela Marmorato
Creating Structure and Meeting Goals
Acknowledging that distance learning is often a choice, and it wasn’t a choice during the current circumstances, Marmorato offers her peers tips on how they can create structure to help meet their academic goals. “First, if you can, find an area to complete work and study that works best for you,” she says, noting that this suggestion may not be feasible for everyone, depending on their living circumstances. “Turn your cell phones off or set it to ‘do not disturb.’ This way you’re not distracted by notifications. Treat online courses like a job with strict deadlines,” this, she explains, improves discipline, time management, and prepares you for future work environments. “Use online library resources offered through John Jay. And most importantly,” she adds, “take frequent breaks. They are necessary to maintain your focus and your well-being. Just know you’re not alone in this process, the whole John Jay community is going through this transition, and there are many people who can help.”
