Online Student Organization Fosters Community for Remote Learners

For many online students, the college experience can feel isolating. Without the traditional campus environment, remote learners often miss out on clubs, social events, and peer connections. 

Recognizing this gap, Ivy Tech Indianapolis student Matthew Lum founded the Online Student Organization (OSO) to bridge the divide.

Lum, who is pursuing an Associate of General Studies with plans to transfer to Purdue University for a career in veterinary medicine, understands the challenges of online education firsthand.

"Most of my classes so far have been primarily online, and I know what it's like to be an online student," Lum said. "You're more isolated. You don't have that typical college experience of being involved in clubs or campus activities."

His solution? A student-led organization open to all Ivy Tech learners – not just in Indianapolis – regardless of campus or major. Since launching last spring, the group has grown to 118 members, with plans to expand engagement this fall.

The organization hosts monthly fellowship meetings, including virtual trivia competitions dubbed "Trivia Throwdown," which will culminate in a semester-end championship. Additionally, Lum is organizing an in-person event featuring a guest speaker on motivation—a key topic for remote learners.

"We really have to find different ways to motivate ourselves instead of waiting until the last minute," Lum said. The event will include dinner, trivia, and networking opportunities, with hopes of drawing 50 attendees.

With graduation approaching next summer for Lum, he is focused on developing new leaders to sustain the organization. Currently, the team includes him and a secretary, and Lum aims to fill the vice president (VP) role, including a VP of social engagement.

While the group is based at the Indianapolis campus (all service area locations, including but not limited to the Lawrence and Plainfield sites), Lum welcomes students from all Ivy Tech locations.

"Anyone across the state can be involved," he said. "The more people we have, the better."

Students can join by visiting the IvyLife page and requesting membership; no approval process is required.

For Lum, the organization’s impact is personal. 

"It’s challenged me to find ways to help not only myself but others stay engaged," he said.

As the group prepares for a busy fall semester, Lum hopes to continue fostering connections that make online education feel a little less lonely.