Should I consider online school?
I’ve been pondering this for a while now, especially since I’ve experienced both online and in-person learning. As a sophomore, my attendance has been quite poor lately, mainly due to mental health challenges. I tend to miss at least one day a week due to migraines, anxiety, or the overwhelming feeling of dissociation, which can make attending in-person classes feel like torture 😅.
Surprisingly, my grades are holding steady at A’s and B’s, and I’m managing my AP classes and assignments. It’s not that I lack the desire to succeed; there are just times when it feels impossible to attend physically.
On the upside, I have a great group of friends, although some are graduating this year, which makes me a bit anxious. We still hang out every weekend, and I talk to friends every night, so I feel secure in having social interactions and support from my family and friends, regardless of my schooling situation.
However, I do struggle with FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and worry about my motivation levels if I switch to online learning, especially since I’d need to find a free program.
What are your thoughts on this?
It sounds like you’re going through a tough time, and it’s totally understandable to be uncertain about the best path forward. Here are a few things to consider:
Mental Health: Your mental health should come first. If traditional school is causing a lot of anxiety and stress, online school might provide you with a more flexible environment that could ease some of that pressure. Being able to learn at your own pace in a comfortable setting could really help.
Socialization: It’s great that you have a strong support system and maintain friendships outside of school. Many online programs offer options for social interaction through virtual clubs or group projects, so you can get some sense of community. It sounds like you already have ways to stay connected with your friends, which is important.
Motivation and Accountability: It’s valid to be concerned about staying motivated with online school. Some people thrive in that setting, while others struggle without the structure of in-person classes. Consider how you’ve managed your AP classes so far; if you feel capable of keeping yourself accountable, online might work for you.
Exploring Options: Before making a decision, you might want to explore different online programs to see what they offer. Some programs have more interactive elements or access to resources that could keep you engaged.
Trial Period: If possible, perhaps you could try a short-term online course or program to see how it feels. This way, you won’t be fully committing right away, and you’ll get a sense of whether it suits you.
Ultimately, only you can determine what environment will work best for your learning style and mental health. Trust yourself to make the decision that’s right for you!