Balancing Summer Break with Taking Summer Classes

Reaching My Goals and also Enjoying My Summer

Summer break is the longest break for students, usually lasting as long as three months. Students are not required to register for classes over the summer, but they do have that option. As for me, I decided to take some classes this summer, because I am planning to get my AS degree next spring. By taking summer classes, I will be able to get all the credits I need to graduate within two years.

How are summer classes different?

Summer classes are usually a little different from classes in spring and fall semesters. One difference is that summer classes are conducted mostly online. Maybe that is because summer is supposed to be break for professors as well. The other difference is that the summer semester is shorter than the others. Summer classes are usually offered for either 12 weeks, 10 weeks, 8 weeks, or 6 weeks. Short classes do not mean you have less things to learn. Instead, it means that your classes are accelerated, which tends to make it harder and requires good time management.

It might sound like summer classes are intense. Yes, they are! Accelerated classes are actually really intense, especially when it comes to the 6- or 8-week courses! You usually have to read about three to four chapters a week. That may make you not want to take summer classes. But, don’t worry! I have some tips to make time for fun during summer as well!

Why would I choose summer courses?

Personally, I am taking advantage of online classes, which you can take anywhere and anytime. By doing so, you have the ability to focus on studying for a couple of hours, get as many things done, and then use the rest of your time for making plans with your friends and family. With online classes, you can also do them while you go on vacation too. You can make the most of your longest break by taking some classes and having fun at the same time!

I know that for most people summer is thought to be a break. However, taking summer classes are good for you to stay engaged in your schoolwork and prevent you from being lazy the whole summer. It is usually hard to get back into your routine, when you start the fall semester after a long break. But it will not happen if you take summer classes. As I described, summer classes tend to be intense, because you have to do more in shorter period of time. But you can still balance it with other plans. It is great that you can still learn what you want, while having fun in summer. Let’s make the most of your study abroad in the U.S. together!