As Spring Semester comes to a close, the option arises of enrolling for summer classes. Eeeekkkk… Who would want to give up their long anticipated summer! However, in college, summer classes offer a good deal of perks. Here's some things to consider when making the decision of what to do with your college summer.
Get ahead a semester.
Knocking out a few courses in the summer can be beneficial by not getting off track or behind on your four years (In case you have to retake a course or change majors down the road).
Focus more on one class.
Many students take a smaller course load in the summer, allowing for more time to dedicate to succeeding in the course verses four or five courses in fall. If you need to retake a class, you are able to do so in the summer when there is less stress of school activities and other classes.
Stay in routine.
Having a three month summer break without the reminder of school can make it tough to jump back in come Fall Semester. Even taking one class keeps you reminded of your school commitments.
Course lengths vary.
Summer offers full 13 week sessions, as well as 6 week sessions the beginning and end of summer. This permits you to still have a summer break, if you really don't want to take classes.
No need to worry about a sublease.
If you live in an apartment or house, there is the difficulty of finding a sublease or paying rent the few months you leave for summer. Those who have done it know it is hard to find someone to move in for summer, and if you don't, you literally are throwing money down the drain to you lock your door and see your room in fall.
See a different side of campus.
Summer in general has a more relaxed vibe. Being on campus when it isn't crawling with students will be less stressful, you become closer to the students in your classes, the bars won't have long lines to get into…AND THERE WILL BE PLENTY OF PARKING!
Summer classes do have some downfalls…
Summer isn't the same.
Summer isn't laying around on the beach all day when you have to take classes. Although, as we get older, that once lifestyle isn't typical anymore anyways. Just think of how productive and hardworking you are being taking classes while others aren't so dedicated.
Classes are condensed.
If you're not up for a typically 13 week course taught in a 6 week term, then maybe summer classes aren't for you. You have to be prepared to do work without the motivation of everyone else around you doing the same.
Oh no…I can't go.
Because most summer classes are shorter, they are taught every day or for longer hours during the week. Some of the happening events that take place in summer may have to be skipped.
Other reasons to complain.
Freshman bombard Summer C, the weather is ridiculously hot, classes cost more...But come on, you can do it. These are only minor annoyances that we come across during fall and spring semesters anyways.
There you have it, summer classes. They offer benefits and doubts, but all in all, getting ahead and making good grades is what we're here for in college, right? Take the time to experience a different side of your campus and feel good about yourself while doing it. Summer classes are becoming more and more popular, so if you choose to stick around for summer, make the most of it!
