Remote learning can be challenging. You’re put under all of the stress of a college semester without the friends or campus life that usually come with it. While we all look forward to being back on campus soon, staying productive and engaged in the meantime is incredibly important because the first few weeks often set the tone for the rest of the semester. Here are five tips that will help you survive remote learning.

Find activities that give you a sense of accomplishment

You may find that your class schedule is poorly suited to remote learning. For example, all the time you set aside to get from place to place is now empty, and those who don’t live in the Central time zone might find that their lunch break is no longer a good time for lunch. You’re left with all sorts of awkward chunks of time that are too short to use for getting work done. Activities like puzzles can help with these situations. Puzzles don’t require more than a few minutes at a time, and in two weeks, you’ll have something to show for your work. Finding a good book to read or even streaming a new show you’ve been meaning to watch can serve the same purpose. The important thing is that you feel like you’ve achieved something.

Shake things up

Remote learning can get incredibly monotonous. When you’re sitting in front of a computer for hours every day, it is important to change things up from time to time. For example, you could sit outside for one of your classes each day or even move between a few different spots in your home. Make sure to get up and walk around for a few minutes after every class, and try to find ways to be social — perhaps by planning activities to do with your family or reaching out to friends. 

Cook your own meals

No matter your level of skill in the kitchen, cooking your own meals is a delicious way to pass the time and take full advantage of a home kitchen. Whether you’re a skilled chef or still mastering the microwave, learning to cook for yourself is a worthwhile and tasty endeavor. Once you return to dorm life, you won’t have as many opportunities to cook as you do at home, so make sure to take advantage while you can!

Even if you don’t typically dedicate time towards your physical fitness, it is imperative that you keep physically active during remote learning. While typical college life involves a fair amount of walking, you won’t have any built-in activity at all during the next two weeks. In addition to physical health benefits, exercise is also important for your mental health. Just getting outside and taking a walk around your neighborhood can make a huge difference and help you de-stress after class.

Don’t be too hard on yourself

Human beings are not meant to spend long periods of time in the same place with limited social interaction. Add in the stress of a college semester and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. You’re likely going to feel unproductive and disengaged during remote learning, no matter what. The important thing is that you don’t get upset with yourself because of it. Yes, your screen time is going to rise significantly. Yes, you’re going to find yourself spacing out during class. But you’re far from the only one struggling, and keeping realistic expectations for yourself will be critical for making it through the next week.