Indianapolis, Indiana – For many students, the traditional college experience comes with bustling campuses, student clubs, and late-night study sessions with friends. But for online learners, much of that camaraderie is missing. The isolation of remote classes can make it harder to stay motivated and connected. Recognizing this gap, Ivy Tech Indianapolis student Matthew Lum took matters into his own hands, founding the Online Student Organization (OSO) to create a community for online learners.
Lum, who is working toward an Associate of General Studies and plans to transfer to Purdue University to pursue veterinary medicine, knows firsthand the challenges of virtual learning. “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.”
The OSO was designed to be inclusive. Unlike traditional campus organizations that often serve students at a single location, Lum’s group welcomes all Ivy Tech students, regardless of campus or major. Since launching last spring, the organization has grown to 118 members, and Lum has ambitious plans to increase engagement this fall.
The group offers a variety of activities to bring students together, even if they’re miles apart. Monthly fellowship meetings are a cornerstone, including virtual trivia competitions called “Trivia Throwdown,” which will build up to a semester-end championship. Beyond virtual events, Lum is also planning an in-person gathering featuring a motivational guest speaker—a topic particularly relevant for students learning remotely.
“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 attracting around 50 attendees. It’s an effort to combine fun, learning, and connection in ways that many online students don’t usually experience.
Sustaining the organization beyond Lum’s time at Ivy Tech is another priority. With graduation approaching next summer, Lum is focused on developing new leaders. The current team consists of Lum and a secretary, but he plans to fill a vice president role and a VP of social engagement to ensure the group continues to thrive.
“THE GOAL WAS TO GIVE ONLINE STUDENTS A PLACE TO ENGAGE … IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT SOCIALIZING—IT’S ALSO ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH. WHEN YOU’RE INVOLVED WITH A SUPPORTIVE GROUP, IT’S EASIER TO TALK ABOUT CHALLENGES AND STAY ACCOUNTABLE.”
– Matthew Lum
Although the organization is based at the Indianapolis campus, its reach is statewide. Lum encourages students from all Ivy Tech locations, including Lawrence and Plainfield, to join. “Anyone across the state can be involved,” he said. “The more people we have, the better.” Membership is simple: students can request to join through the IvyLife page, with no approval process required.
For Lum, the OSO is more than just an extracurricular activity—it’s personal. “It’s challenged me to find ways to help not only myself but others stay engaged,” he said. The organization provides a structured space where online learners can find support, connect with peers, and remain motivated in their studies.
As the fall semester approaches, Lum hopes the OSO will continue to grow, offering students a sense of belonging and community that is often missing from online education. Through trivia games, motivational events, and simple peer connection, the organization aims to make remote learning feel a little less lonely—one student at a time.
