The College Years

Okay, so it won’t necessarily be a cake-walk, but with a few tips, you can have a pretty successful summer semester without too much hassle.  Summer semester college classes can be great for students that need to boost your GPA, finish a few credits prior to graduation, or take advantage of a faster paced learning environment.   If you’ve never taken a summer class then there are a few things you need to be aware of to make it a successful summer semester!  If you have never taken a regular semester college class, then I wouldn’t recommend taking a summer class to start.   For those that have taken a regular semester class, then I hope you’ll find the summer semester classes just as refreshing and challenging as I have.

Summer semester classes are often much faster paced than regular-length semesters.  I’ve found you don’t really have time to procrastinate—if you wait to complete the coursework, you won’t get it done.  For me, it was a push to get my work done on time.   The faster paced, shorter classes also made it very difficult to get burned out!  In many classes, the homework is also somewhat less lengthy—but this doesn’t mean you don’t have to work to get it done. 

·         Make sure you attend class.  This is always important, but is absolutely ESSENTIAL during the summer semester.   If you are planning a vacation, then summer classes are not for you.  You cannot afford to miss class.  If you’re sick, show up anyway—you cover so much information in a short period of time.

·         Do your homework IMMEDIATELY following class.  You won’t have time to do it later, and this is the best way to get it done while the class lecture is fresh in your mind.

·         Take advantage of the library and other campus resources.  Check your institution to see if they offer summer tutoring services. 

·         Don’t be afraid to approach your classmates for a study group!  They can be a great resource and will fully understand what you’re going through!

·         Make sure you know what you’re getting in to!  Some summer classes are only an hour long for a few nights a week, where others are five days a week for several hours!  Make sure you have the time to devote to your class! 

·         It is absolutely possible to work and take summer classes.  Keep in mind you might have to work reduced hours at your job during your summer class.  You won’t have time to make up class time or homework later!

·         The faculty or instructors are sometimes less accessible during summer months than a regular semester.  Email contact or class-time are often the best means to seek help from the instructor.  They do have limited office hours during the summer, and I emphasize limited hours.  Most often, the instructors will be working other jobs or completing research projects or just trying to enjoy the summer months. 

Try not to stress and enjoy taking classes during the summer!  I absolutely prefer summer classes to the fall and spring semesters!  If you stay on top of things, your class will be over in no time and you will have completed the class successfully.  

Any concerns about summer semester classes, share them here!  What are some other tips for doing well in summer classes? 

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