The first week of online school is about more than just logging in and completing assignments—it’s about creating habits that will help you have a successful school year.
If you’re attending ICON for the first time, don’t worry! You don’t have to have everything figured out on Day 1. Start with a plan, stay organized, and give yourself time to adjust.
Here are 7 ways to make your first week a success:
1. Create a Schedule
Set a regular time to wake up, get ready, attend classes, complete assignments, and take breaks. A consistent routine makes online school feel more manageable.
Plan your day before your day plans you! Remember that one of the benefits of online school is that you can create a schedule each day that works for you.
2. Set Up Your Learning Space
Find a place where you can focus. Keep your computer charged, gather your supplies, and minimize distractions. Your learning space doesn’t have to be fancy—it just needs to work for you!
While you can school anywhere that is convenient for you, it is important to have a home base where your computer, supplies, and other important materials are gathered and ready to go.
3. Make Sure You Can Log In
Take time during the first few days to make sure you can access your school platforms, email, classes, assignments, and other tools you’ll need.
If something isn’t working, ask for help right away! Your advisor is your go-to person when you need assistance getting connected or figuring out what to do next.
4. Look at ALL Your Assignments
Don’t wait until an assignment is due to discover what you need to do. Review your courses, check due dates, and make a list of what needs to be completed each day.
Knowing what is expected of you will help you stay organized and prevent those last-minute surprises.
5. Don’t Procrastinate
Online school gives you flexibility, but flexibility requires responsibility. If you have an assignment that will take an hour, don’t wait until 11:00 p.m. to start it!
Break larger assignments into smaller steps and give yourself enough time to complete your work without feeling rushed.
6. Connect With Your Teachers
Your teachers are here to help you succeed. Attend required classes, respond to messages, ask questions, and let your teachers know when you need support.
You are never expected to figure everything out on your own. Asking for help is part of being a successful online student.
7. Give Yourself Grace
Your first week may not be perfect—and that’s okay! You are learning a new routine, figuring out new technology, and discovering what study habits work best for you.
Give yourself time to adjust, learn from what works (and what doesn’t), and make changes along the way.
Remember: Success in online school doesn't happen all at once. It happens one day, one assignment, and one good decision at a time.
This week, focus on building your routine—not being perfect.
You've got this! Your first week is the beginning of something great. Enrollment is still open if you need a new school of choice. You can begin by contacting enrollment@iconschool.org
