I would like to begin this post with a simple exponential graph.
The x-axis represents days in this semester, and the y axis represents my consumption of the lime hot chips from Trader Joe’s. This is clear evidence that I probably spend too much money at Trader Joe’s, but it is also evidence that learning STEM online for the third(ish) semester in a row is taking a serious toll.
Any class, STEM or otherwise, can be challenging to navigate in a normal semester. However, the addition of the online format only makes things more difficult, especially if you tend to have a shorter attention span for lectures like I do. (I am thankful every day for 2x speed).
Fortunately, last semester my friends and I discovered several resources: Chrome extensions, Youtube channels, and study methods that can make Zoom University more bearable. I have compiled a list of them below and hope they can help you as much as they have helped me.
Resources:
Youtube Channels:
Study Methods:
Everyone learns in a different way and figuring out what works for you can take some serious trial and error. However, if you are tired of trying to cram an entire Google doc of lectures or frantically scrolling through a Quizlet prior to a test, some of these may be great alternatives.
That being said, Quizlet will always have a special place in my heart. I definitely won’t be able to finish this degree without it. Andrew Southerland (creator of the app) deserves the Nobel Prize, or at least knighthood.
I hope all of you are hanging in there and still taking the time to do things for yourselves, whether that’s indulging in your favorite snack or bingeing Schitt’s Creek on your couch like my roommate and I do every other night. Good for cardiovascular health? My apple watch doesn’t seem to think so, but it’s definitely good for the soul.
Wishing you luck in the marathon that is the spring semester!
Hannah <3
P.S. Need an uplifting ballad to help you in these trying times? Look no further than the link below.
talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique