Editor's Note: This story is republished from the Sam M. Walton College of Business LinkedIn account

Meet Sammy Massri, a junior accounting major completing his degree online! Throughout his academic journey, he has completed three internships in marketing and business management, helping him build a diverse skill set. This summer, he will take on a Global Audit Internship with Walmart to further explore his field.

How has being an online student shaped your college experience?

Being an online student is definitely challenging, it takes a lot of discipline and motivation to stay on track without the structure of an in-person class. Reaching out to professors has helped me stay engaged and feel more connected to the coursework and the overall college experience.

What has been your favorite Walton College class, and why?

My favorite class so far is one I’m taking right now called Audit and Assurance with Professor Hayes. It’s been really interesting and has helped me get a better understanding of the audit process, which connects directly to what I want to do in my career. Professor Hayes makes the material easy to follow and is always available to help when needed, which has made the class a lot more enjoyable and achievable.

What advice do you have for other online students?

It's really easy to get distracted as an online student, so staying focused and disciplined is key. Just because you're not physically going to class doesn't mean you're not expected to know the material like everyone else. Staying proactive by reaching out to professors, connecting with classmates, and using resources like peer tutoring can help you stay on track and make the most of the experience