College is a huge undertaking, especially for students who choose to obtain an education through online programs. Prospective students must first jump through hoops of choosing a university, sending out applications, selecting a major, and the lengthy financial aid process. It is a relief to have all of the preliminary steps accomplished, but for online students, the challenges have just begun. Luckily, there are ways to deal with the trials online students face.

1. Schedule time for assignments

Time is the most immediate and pressing challenge for online students. Online students have a less structured class schedule: there are no morning lectures or afternoon labs to attend at a specific time and place. The homework is largely self-paced with the exception of a singular due date for weekly assignments. Students need to be self-disciplined and keep track of their own work. Invest in a personal planner, and record due dates, assignment milestones, and daily tasks to keep yourself moving at a steady pace throughout the years.

2. Take some time for yourself

Amidst school, work, family, and other obligations, it is still important for students to take time for themselves. It could be doing yoga three times a week, reading a book before bed, or unwinding with some Netflix after dinner. Simple things like taking a walk around the neighborhood or soaking in a hot bath can do wonders to clear the mind and find some personal time. It is helpful to even schedule personal time in addition to assignments. After all, finding time to relax is just as important as getting everything done.

3. Prepare for negative feedback

Online colleges get a bad rep — and mostly for good reason. There are plenty of disreputable “schools” just looking to line their pockets with financial aid funds at the expense of hopeful students (read more about which schools to avoid here). Unfortunately, this does tarnish online schools for the general public, and there is no shortage of friction between students of online schools and the nay-sayers. There will be snide remarks and the general idea that online college students do not “go to a real college” abound. Be prepared.

4. Get involved to feel involved

Many online schools offer some type of extra-curricular activity for online students. Join an editorial board, write for the school magazine, or mentor other students. There are several honor societies that award continuing education and online students specifically, and they have their own opportunities for student involvement. These can help students feel more immersed in the college experience and are great boosts to the resume.

The structure of college is changing every day. For online students, this means new technologies to learn, different systems to work with, and unique hurdles to surmount. With just a little planning, an open mind, and a lot of hard work and dedication, online college students can get the most out of an experience that will have a profound impact on their future in the modern world.