Taking on any work during the summer was the last thing I wanted to do, but I knew that if I wanted to be a responsible adult (ugh), I should probably take at least one summer course to, ya know, not spend any more time in my undergrad than I already have. Here are five things I learned from taking a course over the summer and why I don't regret it!

1. Maintaining a deadline-oriented mind.

Even during lazy summer days, there's work to be done! I had to keep myself focused on reading almost every day and coming up with analyses that'd blow my professor's mind... and my own! It was a good mental exercise and I'm glad I was challenged appropriately.

2. Getting ahead of the game.

You're literally boosting yourself by however many credits, and if you take an online class, you don't even have to leave your bed to get an "A."

3. Making time for yourself in the future.

Depending on your workload, you might have to skip all-day-every-day beach trips, but you're keeping in mind what matters most: your future! I'd rather graduate on time than have to take another class over a different summer to walk in August.

4. Making new connections with students and professors.

One word: networking. AKA, getting your foot in the door with people who might make you rich and famous in the future. ;)

5. Helping you not dread Fall semester.

If you're already doing schoolwork, there's no big dramatic reunion at the end of August! Keep the momentum up and there won't be too much end-of-summertime sadness.

Taking summer courses was a bit of a trade-off for me, especially since the one I decided to go with was an extended session, so it was even longer than usual! At the end of that journey, I can truly say I'm proud I did the work and really excited that it's one less class I'll have to take during a busier semester!