By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

This is the second academic year for the Virtual Student Senate at Fort Hays State University.

Adam Schibi, on-campus FHSU Student Government Association president, says SGA is still trying to figure out the best way to conduct the election of virtual students from each of the university’s five colleges.

“Obviously, some students might come on for a semester and then not come back. Some might be on for long term, some might be much shorter,” Schibi said.

There are upwards of 15 virtual student senators at any time. Currently, elections are held in the fall.

“Students can apply. They put their name up for election. All virtual students vote on them and they’re put into the positions. They meet monthly with me.”

The FHSU virtual students can reach out to their own representatives as well as the on-campus executive staff with any concerns or questions and suggestions they might have.

They also discuss topics important to their learning and how SGA can better that experience.

“One thing that is kind of being talked about now by a couple of students is online proctoring of exams. They’ve voiced their concerns about it and some of the experiences they had,” said Schibi.

“It’s obviously very difficult, as they can be in various parts of the country and the world, to have lines of communication.

“Sending us an email is probably the best way of to make sure we have information from them. I think that’s one of the best ways we can still make an impact on those students.”

The Virtual Student Senate’s last meeting with Schibi was at the end of February.

“It’s interesting to hear some of the things they have to say in comparison to on-campus students. It’s always a good ear for us to have.”

In Oct. 2018, the Kansas Board of Regents confirmed 7,005 students enrolled in the FHSU Virtual College.