In theory, distance learning is a helpful way to keep your career ambitions on track. In practice, however, there are challenges. Here are a few helpful hints to help you succeed.

1. Get Organized

There’s no question that distance learning of courses that you’d normally take in the classroom can be challenging — for instructors and students alike. Rest assured, though, that if the course is still being offered, it’s because institutes like the New York Institute of Beauty are confident that it can be done at home.

But that sometimes means you’ll need to think through your course requirements ahead of time. If you need to do live demonstrations, for example, think about how you can do them on yourself — or a willing household member.

2. Don’t Cheat Yourself

Courses that let you go at your own pace can be great — if you’re honest with yourself about how much you’re putting into them.

Make sure you’re taking in all of the information carefully, and that you’re putting as much into assignments as you would if you had to “face” the instructor in person!

3. Reach Out to Instructors

It’s much better to try to address your distance learning challenge openly than to jeopardize your education due to unnecessary shame. After all, you’re not the only one who might be dealing with unruly kids or even pets during live tutorials or perhaps can’t get the equipment required for coursework because of local shortages.

Your instructor may well assure you that it’s OK to mute or disappear from the screen for brief periods. She may also suggest a workaround for equipment issues.

4. Put the “Social” Into Social Media

Consider setting up a Facebook group (or use the platform of your choice) to share problem-solving ideas, and simply get to know one another better. Whether you’re trying to figure out a contouring issue or a chemical equation, it helps to know we’re all in the same boat!

5. Reward Yourself

It’s not easy to resist the temptation to sleep in or put assignments off, especially with self-paced classes. But keeping a regular schedule is the best way to stay the course, even when no one is watching you.

Give yourself positive reinforcement as you continue to practice discipline. Brag to your “cheerleader” friend when you forgo that Netflix binge. Or have a cookie reward after you prep materials in advance of when they’re officially due.

Have more questions about distance learning? The New York Institute of Beauty is here to help you succeed, even in these challenging times.