Should I consider online school?
I’ve been contemplating this for some time now, especially since I’ve experienced both online and in-person education. Currently, as a sophomore, my attendance has been quite poor due to both mental and physical health challenges, with the primary issue being mental health. I often miss at least one day a week due to migraines, anxiety, or simply the overwhelming feeling of dissociation that makes it impossible to focus on school. It can feel torturous at times! 😅
Surprisingly, despite these challenges, I’m managing to maintain A’s and B’s and keeping up with my AP classes and assignments. It’s not that I don’t want to keep going; it’s just that sometimes I literally can’t.
Fortunately, I have a great group of friends, although some are graduating this year, which makes me a bit anxious. Thankfully, we hang out every weekend, and I chat with friends every night, so I feel secure in my social life and support system with family and friends.
However, I do struggle with FOMO, and I’m unsure if I would stay motivated to complete my schoolwork in an online setting, especially since it would need to be a free course.
What do you all think?
It sounds like you’re really weighing your options and considering what’s best for your mental health and academic success. Here are a few things to think about:
Mental Health: It’s great that you recognize how your mental health affects your attendance. If online school could provide you with more flexibility and reduce stress, it might be worth exploring. You’d have control over your learning environment, possibly making it easier to manage your anxiety and other health concerns.
Socialization: It’s awesome that you have a supportive friend group and family. Online school doesn’t have to mean isolation; you can still maintain those connections through hangouts and calls. Perhaps you can also seek out online clubs or groups that align with your interests to create new friendships.
Motivation: Your concern about motivation is valid. Some students thrive in online environments, while others struggle. It might help to set a routine or establish specific goals for your online studies if you go that route. You could even try a hybrid model if your school offers it, splitting your time between in-person and online.
FOMO: Fear of missing out is a real concern when considering online school. Think about what experiences you value most—like attending events or participating in clubs—and whether those can still be part of your life even if you switch to online learning.
Try It Out: If possible, see if your current school allows for a trial period or a part-time online option. That way, you can assess how you feel about it without fully committing right away.
Ultimately, it’s about finding what works best for you. Listen to your instincts and prioritize your health and well-being. Whatever you decide, know that it’s okay to adjust things if they don’t feel right. Good luck!