Linette Garcia | Staff Writer
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work has become more than just a temporary solution—it’s become a lifestyle shift. And with remote work’s popularity skyrocketing in higher education, I can’t deny how significantly beneficial it has been for me, an online student who’s too scared to drive in Miami’s streets during the day.
I’m already struggling with juggling my classes and personal responsibilities, so having access to work at home is a game-changer. At the same time, some may argue that working from home limits socialization, remote work gives students like me flexibility and more career-oriented opportunities. For example, my employment includes writing for multiple publications, including PantherNOW and a student-ran fashion magazine, and I knew this possibility wouldn’t have been bestowed on me if it weren’t for remote work.
According to Forbes, as of 2025, more than 32.6 million Americans are projected to have transitioned to working remotely. Moreover, about 16% of companies are gradually shifting their physical offices online, reflecting the current state of the work paradigm of an ever-evolving technological world.
If remote work is unnecessary, why is there a continuous desire for the digital work-life balance?
I never found the appeal of driving from a work shift to make it to class at FIU, as traffic and parking in Miami are a nightmare in of themselves, unless you are more than willing to leave your house hours before the rush. With remote work, I can clock out of a Zoom meeting and immediately switch gears to a study session—all without the stress of traveling.
Remote opportunities also opened doors for those who once felt out of reach. Although I’m based in Miami, there are more internships—ones that align with my career goals, specifically—located in other states, and I’m not dripping in affluence to spend thousands to relocate. Remote work gives accessibility to students to work for companies across the country or even overseas, expanding their pool of potential workers.
Another advantage of remote work is the chance for independence. There is strong evidence that working on your own teaches students to manage time, communicate effectively and stay accountable, with rarely any adverse impact on social and mental well-being. Creating my own flexible schedule allowed me to work more productively and adapt my own needs simultaneously in the comfort of my home.
There is talk of businesses mandating workers to resume work in physical offices, as per President Trump’s RTO executive order signed this year. However, remote work remains steady, and will stay prevalent for many years to come.
Despite some drawbacks of remote work, including home distractions, lack of cultural awareness, and disconnection, its perks greatly surpass them. From being inclusive to parents and disabled workers to being environmentally friendly, remote work simply seems better.
At its core, remote work is about balance, retention and access. It allows us the freedom to define success on our own terms, whether at home, in the library, in a café or on campus. For many students, this model is not just a benefit—it’s a necessity.
Read the other side of the column here on PantherNOW.
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The opinions presented on this page do not represent the views of the PantherNOW Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect the perspectives of contributing writers and/or university community members.
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