For most of you, summer means packing up and heading home to see your friends and family. For others, it might mean study abroad. Or, some of you may have summer jobs or internships lined up. Good for you! However, each year there is always a group of students who stick around to attend summer school. The reasons vary; maybe you spent too much time engaging in extracurricular activities instead of being in the library – the idea of a fifth year victory lap just isn’t as appealing to some. Perhaps you were limited to the amount of classes you were able to take due to work, or you’ve decided to really be a star student and double major. Whatever the reason, DO NOT FREAK OUT. Really. Summer classes are designed to cover an entire semester’s worth of work at a highly accelerated pace. Basically taking twelve weeks and condensing it into six or sometimes four weeks. This means you’ll be attending the same class everyday for an average of two and a half hours – that’s just one class. So staying calm and collected is the name of the game. To help you get by, here are a few suggestions from a girl who took summer classes…all four years of college.
First of all, be strategic in your class selection. It’s not a myth that summer classes are usually a little easier than full-term ones. So, if Anatomy, Calculus, or (insert whatever course you are DREADING the most here) really gives you anxiety, then save it for your summer term. Now I know what you are probably thinking, “Why would I spend my summer stressing out over this one subject?” Easy, it’s half the time and hopefully your distractions will be limited. Dedicate those few weeks to mastering that subject and getting it out of your way. Also, choose a time frame that works best with your schedule. Morning classes will leave you time for an internship, a job, or to enjoy the rest of your day in the sun.
[tweetthis]Morning class will leave you time for an internship, job, or enjoy the rest of your day in the sun.[/tweetthis]
A second suggestion is to not overload yourself. Most summer semesters are broken in half so there are two semesters within the summer. Take one class each half semester, if possible. Yes, that means you will be attending class almost every day – but you will maintain your sanity and that is most important. It is crucial to create a balance for yourself. In doing so, try to carve out 2-3 hours a day for some quality ‘you’ time. Go to the campus gym, explore the college town, and try to have some fun! In addition to creating some personal time, you will need to effectively manage your classwork assignments. If that means you must go home after class to complete your assignments before you engage in other activities, then so be it. Time management is the KEY here. Master this concept – it’s on every job application you’ll ever apply fill out!
Third and finally, do not be afraid to ask for help! If you have a job or an internship, you will need to have an open discussion with your supervisor to create a schedule that works best for both of you. If you find the class you are taking is really putting you through the ringer, sign up for tutoring sessions to improve your understanding of the material. You could also ask your professors for additional help and clarification, they will appreciate it. You’ve committed yourself to these courses, so it’s your job to give it your all! Remember throughout your summer studies that anything is possible if you stay focused! Happy learning, everyone!