“Honesty is the best policy.”
I bet you’d need more than both hands and feet to count how many times you’ve heard this. Yet, it still manages to be a difficult principle to apply in our daily lives, especially in higher education. Distance education is convenient. It’s not easy. That’s the honest truth.
I had a strong start at the beginning of my second course at SNHU. I was getting my assignments in on time. I was engaging with my peers. I even enjoyed writing my first blog post assignment. However, things quickly changed.
School started for my kids. Of course, with back-to-school came back-to-school germs. We went from the stomach flu to colds. (Personally, I escaped the clutches of the cold—so far.) Needless to say, I am one exhausted mama.
As hard as I was trying to muscle through and still get my assignments in on time, I realized it wouldn’t happen. I had to be honest with myself. I was doing my body no favors, trying to pump it full of caffeine (which usually makes me tired anyway) and survive off minimal sleep. (I’m already a poor sleeper, but that’s a story for another time.)
Long story short, I emailed my instructor, asking for a one-day extension while also acknowledging I am well aware of the lateness policy and would defer to that if a single day wouldn’t cut it.
To save yourself from the mental and physical stress that I went through, here are my suggestions if you find that time is not on your side and you have school assignments due.
Be Honest with Yourself
Take an honest assessment of your situation. Consider how long it takes you to do your assignments when you’re healthy and not distracted or overwhelmed. Are you in the position to give it your all? It’s okay if you’re not.
Be Honest with Your Instructor
Your instructor cannot help you if they don’t know you need help. If you’ve been honest with yourself, and you’re unable to do your best work, go ahead and send that email! Let your instructor know what you’re facing and your needs. Your instructor is a part of your education journey. Problem-solve this together.
Note: Some distance education instructors have office hours. If yours does, take advantage of that.
Be Kind to Yourself
If you earn a grade that’s lower than your norm or if you’re unable to get your assignment in at all, this is not the time to be harsh with yourself. Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge your struggles. Remember your strengths. If it’s too late to focus on your previous assignments, regroup and look to the upcoming ones.
Be Kind to Others
Be kind to others? No, that’s not a mistake. What do others have to do with your time of need? A lot. Have faith that the people who want you to succeed will be there for you during your time of need. Do them a kindness. Let them help you. Allow them the joy and satisfaction of making things a bit smoother when you hit a bump in the road along your academic journey.
In your own life, do you put these principles into practice? Let me know if you find them easy. If we’re being honest, these took me some time to implement.
Leave a Reply