“I felt drawn to the way of online learning, so I could learn at my own pace, and work independently. And the language that I was hoping to take wasn’t provided at my school.” – Gabrielle B.
Gabrielle reads culture notes and extra material and shares her thoughts with me. She also contacts me to go over new material beyond content in the course. This student is a French 1 student with very good pronunciation, an interest in new things, and she is very enthusiastic about the French course. – Annette Frey, NCVirtual French Instructor
My NCVirtual Experience
I am taking my first NCVirtual class, French I.
Taking an online course has changed my way of working. It pushes you to learn how to keep up with your tasks and responsibilities. Also, it is not like face-to-face learning, where a teacher is most likely there to encourage you to do a certain objective. Compared to online learning, it is mostly all on your own, so you need to be your own motivator. This has definitely advanced my education.
It has been a surprise to me how independent it allows me to be. As an introvert, I would much rather work on my own and have minimal interactions with others. This may not be for everyone, but it’s what works for me!
My advice to other online students is that online learning isn’t just a way out of a class, it is simply a different, efficient way to learn. Develop a schedule that works for you, and manage your time wisely.
Outside of School
My whole life I have had a passion for music, it’s how I was raised. I play the trombone in my school’s symphonic, marching, and jazz band. I dedicate all of my time to this because it is what I love to do. I like to say that marching band is my sport. I also have a love for yoga, which I have done all of my life. It keeps my mind and body at peace.
My all-time favorite movie is The Wedding Planner. It’s my comfort movie. I listen to a variety of metal music. One of my favorite bands right now has to be I Prevail. I’ve seen them live once in Ohio, it was an incredible experience. I couldn’t choose a favorite song though, I am always listening to different stuff, so my favorites are always changing.
I am part Canadian. My mom grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia. More of my family members still live there, so I get the opportunity to travel there, and other provinces in Canada. People usually ask if I like maple syrup and poutine. Not only do me and my family travel to Canada, we travel to many places within the U.S. also. I’ve been to several states, including Florida, Ohio, Tennessee, New York, and more.
Goals & Plans
A goal that I had this semester was to get all A’s in my classes. I have achieved my goal and made it with high A’s. Despite my heavy schedule with marching band, I still manage to do the work I have been assigned from other classes. I use all the time and resources I can get during school hours. In class is when I focus best, and not at home.
The question that everyone asks is what you plan on doing, or what university you are attracted to. Personally, I have no idea. I know that I have time to decide what I´d like to do, but sometimes it feels like the ideas could come faster. The steps that I will take to have a successful and fulfilling future consist of continuing my hard work and persistence.
Other Fun Facts
Carrots are my favorite snack.
I could not live without my watch, I wear it constantly and don’t feel complete when I’m not wearing it. I have a pretty good watch tan!
