Community college comparison shows FPU students are in good hands

by Jake Mott

Lauryn Mattson, a community college student in Gardner, MA, is making the transition to online classes a bit differently than the students of FPU.

Like many of the students from FPU, she’s had to deal with being temporarily laid off, the closing of her gym, and being unable to spend time with certain friends and family. However, it’s not all the same for her.

Lauryn Mattson, a student at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner, MA            Photo: Jake Mott

For starters, Mattson says she has experienced a big change in workload as well participation from her fellow classmates. “Everything seems so much more laid back,” she said. “There’s at least 20 kids in one of my classes and there’s only been like seven posts on the discussions for each chapter.”

In contrast, FPU and it’s students have made a better transition. “People are asking a lot of questions,” said Josh A., a sophomore at FPU. “Everyone has to put in the extra effort if they want to stay caught up.” While the workload hasn’t changed much, Anderson has noticed a big increase in “busy work”, like discussion posts and short responses.

One of Mattsons’s professors uploads their lectures online. “A lot of times it cuts in and out,” she said. This is even tougher considering the online tool they use isn’t live and don’t allow the students to ask questions. All of that would have to go through a lengthier process over email.

FPU’s online classes seem to be fairing better. “Considering the circumstances I think they (online classes) have been alright,” said Anderson. “The teachers have definitely been putting their best effort forward.” Asking questions and interacting with professors is also an easier process for FPU students.

Jake Mott is buckling down for the home stretch of the semester and wishes everyone the best of luck in their classes!