Summer classes: A college student's nightmare. Summer should be a time of relaxation, having fun with friends, and working to make some extra cash for the fall. Instead, some of us have to take college courses in order to graduate on time, save money, etc. Here are 11 reasons why summer classes are a blessing and a curse.

1. It's nothing but piles of tedious homework.

Most students go into summer classes thinking they will have a lighter work load. Unfortunately, the amount of homework given depends on the course and the professor. There is a high possibility of spending hours on one assignment for one class. Thoughts such as these may go through your head, Why did I decide to do this?, and, There are so many other things I could be doing right now (aka sleeping or binge-watching Netflix).

2. Nice weather is terrible for productivity.

As the weather gets nicer, our ability to focus goes down. It could be the perfect day to sit outside, yet we have to stay inside for boring lectures. Daydreams of sitting poolside with a cold drink in hand or basking in the sun on a beach may come to mind. The material we're supposed to be learning could entirely go through one ear and out the other due to the desire to be outside.

3. Exams? Over the summer? What?

Alas, the exams have returned. The countless hours of studying and stressing may cause your brain to go into overdrive. You will want to take a nap, cry, procrastinate, or do all three in no particular order. Your jealousy of friends who don't have grades to worry about heightens. No matter the season, exams are the ultimate foe, so it's self-explanatory.

4. The first day of class feels like kindergarten.

If you're taking classes at a completely different college than your own, it can be an entirely new ballgame. Navigating a new campus is frustrating and not knowing anyone can feel awkward. Trying to adapt to professors' teaching styles will seem impossible. People will come up to you almost as if they've known you your whole life but you just met them 30 seconds ago. Of course, it's all trivial, but you will become adjusted eventually!

5. But, you can make new friends.

Referencing reason four, if you get to know classmates well enough, you may make new friends. They will be your go-to people. From study sessions to joking around in class, your newfound friends will make the time go by faster and more fun will be brought to the table. Plus, they will be going through the same problems as you are, so they can relate to you. If you don't know where to start, just introduce yourself and say where you're from. You don't know what great friendships could stem from a simple conversation!

6. And you look "accomplished" for being so dedicated to your studies.

Taking summer classes makes you look like you have your life together even if you don't. When people find out that you're taking summer classes, they say, "What a good idea, keep up the good work!" or "I wish I was that committed! You must work really hard year-round!" Take the compliments and gloat all you want. Enjoy the positive feedback because people don't really know the half of it.

7. You won't be able to sleep til 2 p.m. every day, though.

Whether class is at 8 a.m. or noon, there is no way of being able to stay up until 3 a.m. and sleep until 1 p.m. like previous summers. This can cause fatigue, a messed up sleeping schedule, and a need of an IV of caffeine. It's important to get enough sleep so that you can retain information better and stay sane!

8. At least online classes offer some flexibility.

If you're taking online classes, you will be able to work at your own pace and at your leisure. You don't have to fret about incomplete notes, professor shenanigans, and strict deadlines. For some, online classes are not the best idea because of the lack of structure. If you're too busy to fit lectures into your schedule and capable of being responsible for your grades, then online classes are perfect!

9. But that means you could get distracted, and get less work done.

If you are taking a lot of credits, you might only be able to work part-time or not at all. This may be a good thing if you don't like your job, but you won't be making as much money than if you only worked. Most employers are understanding of a college student's schedule, but some aren't. Either way, you won't have a lot of money in your pocket, so spend your money wisely!

9. The class sizes are pretty small, so that's nice.

Class sizes decrease dramatically in the summer, so you will get one-on-one help and the quality of classmates is great too. The people in summer classes are there because they want to be there, not because they have to be. This creates a chance to get to know everyone on a first-name-basis and it may be more of a casual setting. Your grades can improve drastically from the extra attention and close bond with the class.

11. At least learning is always good for you.

Last but not least is the fact that learning is significant to keep your brain healthy. The brain is a muscle, and it grows bigger and stronger if you exercise it. Learning teaches the brain something new and creates new connections. Summer classes are filled with various ideas and knowledge to gain, so your brain will thank you. If you're lucky enough, you may get to learn about fascinating topics, which motivates you more. Show your brain some love!

Summer classes can be a big struggle, but there are so many advantages of taking them. Keep pushing through the semester; you may end up liking it!