The first step in any student’s remote learning journey is determining their Zoom persona. This may take some intense reflection and soul-searching. Critical questions students must address in doing so include: Are you planning to wear pants? Which virtual background are you gravitating towards? Do you plan to do all your classes from the comfort of your bed? How strong is your WiFi connection? Regardless of your answers, these tips and tricks are perfect for any Zooming student.

1. Did you cut your own bangs at midnight alone in your room while in quarantine? More broadly, have you made a poor DITY (Did It To Yourself) life decision? If the answer is yes to either of those questions, you should be turning your video off for every meeting. Hide your shame behind a black screen. All you can do now is pray it will grow back by September.

2. Ever heard of a walk-out? Now you can stage one in your own home! Simply stand up and leave the frame of the Zoom call — no context needed.

3. Feeling less connected to the classroom? Push your WiFi network to its maximum potential! Spring for multiple Zoom devices so your classmates can see you studiously taking notes from all 15 angles.

4. Feeling creative? Write a fake news article on new research showing COVID-19 is transmissible through Zoom calls. Share it with your class and then cough aggressively.

5. Feeling bored by the humdrum of a bare bottom half every day? Switch it up with a costume! Whether it is award show-worthy formal wear or an inflatable dino costume, dress to impress.

6. Are you tired of Zooming from the same location? Do the room tour nobody asked for! Change your Zoom station while simultaneously showing off your highly organized closet.

7. Feeling distanced from your friends? Spend quality time together while receiving a first-class education. Inviting them to join the party (aka. your English class) is as simple as copying and pasting a Zoom link. 

8. Are your legs falling asleep from sitting all day? Perform an interpretive dance for your class while listening to your favorite tunes on your AirPods! Your classmates will be so impressed that they will feel compelled to join in.

9. Are you bored of seeing your same old ceiling fan and dresser in every one of your Zoom calls? Zoom backgrounds are an excellent form of self expression. Choose from an endless range of options, from your favorite cartoon show to a room full of toilet paper.

10. What are recorded Zoom calls if not movies with you as the star of the show? Transitions are a key aspect of award-winning film, so you will need some high quality dives in and out of frame. Switch it up with some props. Your pet, a bowl of cereal, or a costume change can all add to the confusion of your audience members. Bonus points if your teacher asks what you are doing.

These tips and tricks are sure to improve the quality of your Zoom sessions! Share this list with a friend and try your favorites in your next Zoom call.