Is it a good idea to take summer classes?

Hi Caitlin,

Really good question. I would say that taking summer school really depends on your individual situation. If you are looking to get ahead, knock requirements out of the way, lighten your semester academic load, or graduate early then taking summer school classes is a great idea. I took two classes over the summer between by junior and senior year which allowed me to graduate a semester early. Taking classes over the summer was a really great use of my time and I really enjoyed my classes. Taking summer school classes can also be a great way to take difficult classes due to the limited amount of time in the summer; summers are shorter than a semester which means that less will be taught compared to a semester. If you are dreading a certain class you may want to take it over the summer.

Of course you also have to realize the cost of summer school, both financial and non financial. If you are looking to have a fun easy summer then taking classes may not be for you. If you also are on a strict budget then taking summer school classes may not be a possibility. Examine your individual situation, how you like to spend your summers, and what your 4 year college plan is; if you are willing to spend time during summer learning then I would highly suggest taking classes!!

I hope this helps and I wish you the best of luck.

Best,

Austin

It depends on your situation and the classes! For instance, I had two classes worth of credits left in order to graduate two semesters early. In order to avoid paying student fees for another year, I decided to take those to classes the summer before I would have started my senior year. I was working part time and taking parts I and II of organic chemistry. It was really tough, mostly because those classes did not play to my strengths AND everything is consolidated during summer session. I still had plenty of time to enjoy the summer and make a little money but, if I had to do it over again, I would probably have chosen a couple of easier classes (had there been an option). However, it was completely worth it when I was able to graduate at the end of that summer and a full year before my peers. It allowed me to take advantage of some opportunities (internships, jobs) that I wouldn't have been able to otherwise.