New Student Senate president challenges students to reach out, establish connections virtually

“I’m a hands-on learner, so being in so many online classes has been really hard for me,” said Ian Carter, newly-elected president of Student Senate. “It’s a challenge, but it is possible to succeed and find friends, you just have to approach it differently.”

His advice for all students? To be the one to take the initiative and start a class group chat. That single act could make all the difference for understanding the subject matter, assignments and building class camaraderie.

“Honestly, your best resources – whether in person or online – are other students. It’s easier to just talk to someone after class when we’re physically there, but it can happen online too. You just have to be the one to reach out,” Carter said.

Many students who are primarily in asynchronous courses feel discouraged about opportunities for social interaction and aren’t sure how to make connections when they are not meeting together.

“Look around and notice who may have some of the same classes as you and start a conversation. Chances are they are feeling like you are and you reaching out could start something,” he said. “College connections last a lifetime, and those don’t come to you, you have to seek them out and put yourself out there.”

Carter has been involved with the Spanish Club, National Pan-Hellenic Council, OHIO Recruiting Society, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., where he served as both president and treasurer. Through student organization involvement, he has learned valuable skills, established friendships and developed a strong connection to OHIO. Before any of that happened, he was a nervous first-year student who had the courage to show up somewhere new.

“Student orgs are meeting, and anyone is welcome to join those conversations,” he said. “If you’re shy, you can keep your camera off, and you don’t have to say anything if you aren’t comfortable at first… but be around other people. You may learn something new; you may just feel better by listening to others who are in your situation.”

The last piece of advice Carter has for students is to get outside. Fresh air is good for the mind and body, and there is a lot to do during the fall season. 

“Go for a walk, grab a coffee, get up and move,” Carter said. “I randomly went apple picking last week, and it was really fun. Being open to new things and new people – that’s what college is about.”

Create a profile on Bobcat Connect to find student organizations that match your interests and find ways to join virtual meetings, events and live chats.

Email senate@ohio.edu to share your experiences with student leaders who are advocating for students to the Ohio University Administration.