Photo: Friends studying together at the Evansdale Library
If you're considering an online program, you may wonder whether you'll miss out on the relationships that often define the college experience. Without walking across campus or seeing classmates in person, it's easy to assume online learning is a solo journey.
In reality, community in an online program simply looks different. Connections can develop through class discussions, study groups, and game nights. The difference is that students often need to take a more active role in creating those connections.
Start by Showing Up
Most online programs at WV include discussion boards, group projects, and other in-class opportunities to increase interaction. While it may be tempting to complete assignments and move on, these engagement opportunities are foundational for building relationships.
Here are a few tips to make the most of your online program experience: Put yourself out there and introduce yourself early in a course. During course discussions, respond thoughtfully to classmates' posts. If someone's perspective resonates with you, continue the conversation in earnest to share ideas and build familiarity.
Consistent participation and communication help transform classmates from names on a screen into people you recognize, learn alongside, and maybe eventually call your friends.
Create Opportunities to Connect
Strong communities often come from simple beginnings.
If you're preparing for an exam or working through a challenging assignment, consider inviting classmates to join a virtual study session. A short video call can make it easier to compare notes, get connected, and stay motivated.
Many students also create group chats through Slack, GroupMe, or Discord to share reminders, celebrate successes, and support each other throughout a course. These informal spaces can help recreate some of the everyday interactions that happen naturally in traditional classrooms.
Make Room For Social Connection
Not every conversation has to be about coursework, and quite frankly, it shouldn’t be.
Virtual happy hours, game nights, or casual check-ins can help students get to know one another beyond assignments and deadlines. Even a brief conversation about work, family, or hobbies can create a stronger sense of belonging. Even a question about what TV shows a classmate has been watching lately can spark a connection.
These interactions may seem small, but they often lead to friendships, accountability partners, and professional connections that last well beyond a single class.
Don't Overlook Faculty Connections
Faculty can be an important part of your online community as well.
Attending virtual office hours, asking questions, and engaging in class discussions can help you build relationships with instructors. Over time, these connections can provide mentorship, career guidance, and valuable professional insights.
Many students are surprised by how accessible faculty can be in online environments, especially when communication is intentional and consistent. At the end of the day, your professors and instructors are here to help you and are excited to do so. If you have a question, be sure to reach out to get the information you need while starting to build a connection.
Community Starts with One Step
Online learning doesn't mean learning alone.
The strongest online communities are often built through small, intentional actions like simply introducing yourself, joining a study group (or starting your own), reaching out to a classmate, or attending office hours. While the experience may look different from a traditional campus setting, meaningful relationships can and do still grow.
Remember that connection isn't something you simply find. It's something you help create, one conversation at a time. Reach out to our team to learn how you can become an active part of WVU's online community of learners