I recently started taking some classes online again through NYU’s Steinhardt School of Education. While having a lot of trepidation about going back to school, so far I have no regrets about this decision. I’ve learned that structured learning can be a good thing as it keeps one humble about how much knowledge is out there to learn. While it’s still early, here are some key observations about being a student for me personally at this juncture.

1) I knew this going in but academic writing is much different than when writing professionally. Citations, citations, citations.

2.) The Socratic method can keep one on their toes with being throughly prepared for class.

3.) Grades do not matter as much as one may think initially. What’s more important, rather, is progress; that is, being able to put your ideas together leveraging the literature and getting better. This is all that matters, not the grade.

4.) Being on camera matters to be committed to online learning and more importantly the camaraderie of a student group.

5.) A cohort can be incredibly powerful and one that has a diverse set of experiences and expertise can be exponentially powerful. I’m learning so much from my fellow classmates.

6:) Teaching online is not easy from a student engagement perspective. Technology can do better in helping teachers stay engaged with each student.

7.) Learning at this stage is an emotional experience. The amount of homework that you’ll have to wrestle with is the reality and trying to balance this with work and everyday life can be overhauling. Naturally one will have some emotional swings with managing the work but this is part of the journey. Accepting and embracing this reality is a big step.

I want to thank my better half, my wife, for allowing me to do this. Without her support and patience taking this journey would have not been possible. I love you, my Cherie amour.