When Brian Bikram ’20 decided he wanted to graduate early, he turned to distance learning to get a leg up. “I always hoped to graduate ahead of schedule because I wanted to begin my professional career as soon as possible. So, when I realized taking classes online in the summer, and during winter break, would put me on track for early graduation, I took it,” says Bikram who is a double major in Culture and Deviance Studies, and Humanities and Justice. Like many who have taken advantage of John Jay’s distance learning opportunities, Bikram saw the many benefits students can gain from the process. “You learn to be accountable. You have a great deal of responsibility when taking online classes,” he says. “You’re also empowered by the process because it’s 100 percent on you to manage your schedule and make sure your work is done and turned in on time.”

Going Online, Together
While the decision to transition to distance learning at colleges and universities across the country was prompted by the coronavirus—and had to happen in an incredibly short amount of time—Bikram wants the John Jay community to know it’s okay to be nervous, apprehensive, and even upset. “I think it’s important for each one of us to remember that we’re not alone in this new endeavor of distance learning. We’re all going through this sudden shift in how we’re taking courses,” he says, adding that students will learn in different and new ways through online coursework. “Online work allows for flexibility. And right now, we need to be flexible and understanding of what’s going on in the world.”

Adapting to Classes Online
Bikram, who has taken five online courses during his time at John Jay, knows that the best way to adapt to distance learning is through patience and maintaining open lines of communication with peers and professors. “Blackboard communication was essential to my own success in online learning. My classmates were there for me whenever I had a question. And, their comments, ideas, and suggestions during discussions were really thought provoking,” he says. As someone who aspires to become a professor in the future, Bikram really appreciates and admires the constant support he’s also received from faculty. “With every online course I’ve taken, the professor has been super attentive and communicative, answering my questions quickly and thoroughly,” he says adding that he has no doubt faculty will provide support to students. “They’re 100 percent there for you so don’t hesitate to reach out to them.”

Finding the Perks
Pointing to one of the perks he discovered during his own distance learning experience, Bikram notes that students, especially those who are shy, may be more comfortable speaking up in an online classroom setting. “I like to say that the online learning environment is a zero-judgement zone area,” says Bikram. “It provides an outlet for students who are shy, or on the quiet side, to speak up, ask questions, and voice their opinions. There’s less fear of being judged. And because it’s predominantly text communications, it's easier for those who don’t like speaking in front of others, to communicate and get their points across.” His advice to students navigating distance learning for the first time: “Do not be afraid to ask for help. The entire John Jay community is here to help you. We’re in this together, so take on this new challenge with an open mind, and do the best you can.”