During his time at Indiana State University, senior psychology student Gabriel (Konnor) Lewis has logged in from a computer screen rather than walking into a classroom. His lectures have streamed through headphones. His discussions have included online forums. His classmates have appeared as names and faces in digital spaces rather than as seats beside him.
And yet, his Sycamore journey has been no less real.
As an online student at Indiana State, Lewis has discovered that meaningful learning doesn’t depend on where you sit. It depends on how deeply you’re engaged and supported.
Lewis arrived at Indiana State already familiar with online education. He’d completed high school through a virtual charter program, where he learned early how to manage his time and stay motivated without the structure of a traditional classroom.
“I’ve pretty much been doing online learning for a long time,” he says. “I already knew what it demanded.”
After earning an associate degree in psychology from Ivy Tech Community College, Lewis began searching for a bachelor’s program that would match his interests and his lifestyle. Indiana State’s online program stood out immediately.
“Some of the course names sounded really fascinating,” Lewis says. “All the roads led here.”
Transferring in with 61 credit hours, Lewis stepped into the psychology program with confidence. But what surprised him most wasn’t the coursework. It was the connection.
“I’ve enjoyed meeting everyone here – e-meeting everyone here,” he says with a smile. “My professors have been great, and I’ve really felt that connection. My professors constantly check in with me, offer guidance, and encourage me to keep going. Whether it’s an email or a phone call, they’re there for me. That kind of support really matters.”
That support, paired with a thoughtfully structured online format, helped Lewis stay engaged. Through discussion boards, interactive assignments, and flexible pacing, he developed a routine that worked for him – often using tools like the Pomodoro technique (timed work intervals) to stay focused and consistent.
“The formatting of the classes has been great,” he says. “Even the logistics—how things are set up—made it much better for me. Having a daily timer and a consistent schedule has definitely helped me.”
As Lewis progressed through Indiana State’s online psychology program, his interest in psychology sharpened into something more specific and personal.
“I’ve always been interested in how people think and behave,” he explains. “Learning about the brain, memory, cognition, and behavior has really stuck with me.”
That interest eventually grew into a passion for positive psychology, a field focused on helping people thrive rather than simply treating mental illness.
“For me, psychology has focused a lot on curing mental illness, but positive psychology looks at fulfillment,” Lewis explains. “I just really love people, and I want to help them flourish. I want to help them find that greater sense of purpose.”
That perspective now shapes how he sees his future. Lewis hopes to use his degree as a foundation for work centered on service, leadership, and human connection.
“I’m really interested in being a motivational speaker, life coach, or someone who helps others grow,” he says. “I love TED Talks – taking what you’ve learned and sharing it in a way that really connects with people. I’d love to do that. I want to make an impact.”
Even in a fully online environment, Lewis has found ways to build community. Through Sycamore Grove, Indiana State’s virtual hub for online learners, Lewis connected with other students navigating similar paths. In the online space, students participate in discussions, chat rooms, and live sessions – all while offering advice and support.
“Sycamore Grove has really helped me feel more involved. There’s a face behind the name of the student,” Lewis explains. Through conversations and shared resources, Lewis felt reassured that he wasn’t alone in his education. “It really lets distance learners know, ‘Hey, you matter, too.’”
Still, there was one part of the college experience Lewis didn’t want to experience through a screen: Commencement. He plans to attend Spring Commencement, celebrating the Class of 2026, on campus in Terre Haute on May 9.
“Even though I completed my degree online, I knew I wanted to come to Commencement in person because this journey has been such a significant part of my life,” he says. “Being on campus, surrounded by fellow Sycamores, makes the whole experience feel more real.”
Walking across the stage is also about honoring the people who have supported him—his family, professors, mentors, and friends—and celebrating alongside others who persevered through their own journeys.
“I’m looking forward to hearing my name called, walking across the stage, and being in the room with so many other graduates who have their own stories,” Lewis comments.
For him, that moment represents something bigger than a degree. It’s a full-circle moment – going from screen to stage, and stepping into a future defined by service.
“I’ve spent a lot of time learning, growing, and trusting God through this process,” Lewis reflects. “Now, Indiana State has given me a launching pad to boost off of. Everyone’s challenged me and helped me so much, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.”
Indiana State University is an accredited regional public institution that has served students, families, and employers throughout Indiana and the Midwest since 1865. Visit us online at IndianaState.edu to learn more about academic programs, campus life, and the Sycamore student experience.
You can search a list of majors in our Academic Program Finder or schedule a campus visit with our Office of Admissions. Contact us at admissions@indstate.edu or call 812-237-2121. Our free online application for admission is available at IndianaState.edu/apply.
To share a People of Indiana State story idea, submit this storytelling form with the requested details. To learn more about People of Indiana State, email ISU-Marketing@indstate.edu.