Finals are over, dorm rooms are empty, and campus is almost vacant - besides those few students who have decided to partake in summer school. But why? Summer is supposed to be a time free from homework and tests, instead filled with movies and trips to the lake - so why would anyone choose to take classes during summer break? You’ll probably be surprised at the answer.
What is summer school?
Summer school is generally offered in two or three different sessions throughout the summer at almost all colleges and universities. Since the classes only last three to six weeks, the intensity is greater and the pace is faster than that of a regular class. These classes usually meet every weekday for several hours in order to cover the same amount of material as a semester-long class. Most students choose to only take one or two classes per summer session because you will be devoting quite a bit of time and effort into your studies in order to keep up. It’s worth it, though, because you can get through classes in a fraction of the time and usually for less money.
Why should you take summer classes?
There are several reasons why you should consider summer school as a valid option:
-
You can make up a class you dropped/didn’t pass during the semester.
-
You can finish your degree earlier.
-
You can take a class that wouldn’t fit in your schedule otherwise.
-
You can get through a class you hate in only a few weeks vs. an entire semester.
-
You can save money.
-
You can focus completely on that one class instead of balancing five classes (GPA booster).
-
You can try out a new subject that you’re interested in.
-
You can experience smaller classes & a more low-key atmosphere.
The best part is that even if you do decide to take a summer class, it doesn’t mean your entire summer is gone! You will still have at least half (usually more) of your summer that is class-free, so you can relax, unwind, and prepare for the next semester. Not to mention, summer boredom is real, and if you take an interesting class, you won’t find yourself staring at the ceiling or at the same Instagram posts over and over again because there’s nothing better to do. Even if you want to go home for the summer, and your home is far away from your university, you can enroll in summer classes at a college that is close to you. Then, after you’ve completed those classes, you can easily transfer those credits to your own school.
