8 Tips to Build Relationships With Faculty and Peers as an Online Student

Some students worry that online courses won’t offer them the opportunity to get to know their instructor or make professional connections. In reality, online classrooms provide multiple ways for students to engage with their instructors and peers.

Similar to traditional classrooms, putting in a little effort can help you build relationships with your faculty and classmates. Here are eight tips to help get you started.

1. Introduce Yourself Before Class Begins

There is often free time before an online class starts while students sign in to the discussion or lecture. Use this time to introduce yourself to your teacher and classmates or even throw out a quick greeting. More often than not, you’ll encourage the same behavior in others and get a conversation going that can help everyone get to know one another.

>>Related Reading: Networking Tips for Online College Students

2. Be a Good Digital Communicator

Instructors typically take questions via email and chat. When reaching out to them:

• Be clear and concise.
• Use proper grammar and punctuation.
• Use your student email account to send email.
• Use a formal greeting and closing, such as “Dear Professor B.” and “Sincerely.”
• Include a detailed and descriptive subject line.
• Use the correct title (Dr., Professor, etc.).
  • Do not address the professor by their first name unless they have stated that students should call them by their first name.
• Introduce yourself and state which course/section you are enrolled in.
• Avoid using slang, abbreviations, emojis, and all-capital letters.

When you follow the above tips, you make it easier for the instructor to communicate back, which helps build rapport.

3. Request a Virtual Meeting

If you want to discuss a more nuanced matter, you may prefer to schedule a virtual meeting with your instructor during their regularly scheduled office hours. Know the rules of good virtual etiquette:

• Be punctual.
• Dress appropriately.
• Mute yourself when not speaking.
• Engage — nod, smile, etc.

4. Ask for Career Advice or Share Aspirations and Concerns

Asking your instructor for professional advice can relieve some of your concerns and guide you in the right direction. Once you’ve built rapport with your instructor through class conversations or occasional small talk, it’ll be easier to dig into your aspirations or share career concerns.

Asking for help demonstrates respect for their expertise and can strengthen your academic relationship over time.

Remember, Purdue Global's career services department is there to help you succeed as well.

5. Participate in Online Forums and Group Discussions

Both formal and informal discussions can lead to stronger relationships with your classmates and faculty. Just about every online course has a forum for group discussions. For example, online courses at Purdue Global include a discussion board where you can ask questions of faculty and classmates and participate in group discussions.

Of course, make sure you conduct yourself professionally and adhere to any student conduct guidelines established by your school and instructor.

>>Read More: The Online College Student's Guide to Success: Tips, Tools, and Resources

6. Get Active on Social Media

Just about every online college has active social media pages and groups. Join them! Interact genuinely, aiming to add to the conversation and connect with like-minded people. You never know what friendships and networking opportunities will evolve from discussing mutual interests.

>>Check out Purdue Global’s Facebook Group

7. Join Clubs and Professional Organizations

You can build relationships with peers, faculty, and staff by joining one of your school’s student groups.

For example, Purdue Global offers various student groups, including professional learning communities, clubs, and honor societies that can help you form valuable connections. Students are ready to celebrate, support, and challenge each other to become their best selves.

Current Purdue Global students can join a club by logging into Purdue Global campus.

8. Meet in Person

Meeting in person may not always be an option. But if geography permits it, once you’ve started to get to know your classmates, you could form smaller in-person study groups or attend local events together.

If your school has an alumni association, such as the Purdue Alumni Association, take advantage of these resources. They are great places to interact with peers and faculty.

Grow Through Connection at Purdue Global

If you’re concerned about being able to build relationships with your teachers and fellow students because your classroom is online, don’t be. With a little extra effort, you can forge meaningful, lasting relationships with them. The more you get to know your peers and instructors, the more comfortable you’ll be asking for help and seeking career guidance.

Purdue Global is proud to add a human touch to online learning. We provide you with a vibrant and supportive community and the online tools and resources you need to succeed.

Contact us today to learn more about an online education from Purdue Global.