I graduated a semester late and opted to finish up a few credits during the summer versus the next spring. In all honestly, I wasn’t pleased at all. I felt like I was damaging my career and essentially ruining my life. During summers, I always interned in the city – usually at two places – to stay competitive. But nope…because I screwed up during the school year, I was stuck in D.C. for three months. Worst. Summer. Ever.
Luckily, it didn’t end up being too bad. Though I didn’t have enough time to intern like I wanted to, I was still able to utilize free time – something that I wasn’t used to having – to have informationals with other writers and editors and actually focus in class. Because, you know, that’s the whole point of school. If you’re less than enthused about spending your summer in school, be encouraged boo. It’s really not all that bad…trust me.
1) No override struggles
There’s nothing worse than having your ideal schedule planned out (with no class on Fridays!) and finding out that one of your necessary classes is filled to capacity. During summer school, since less people are competing for seats, it’s easier to get the classes that you want and need.
2) Get to know your classmates and teachers
Those “intro to” classes with hundreds of barely-listening kids in a huge auditorium? More than likely, you won’t have to deal with them during the summer. Many courses only have a handful of students, which creates ample opportunity to get to know your professors and classmates. Don’t know about y’all, but I got a lot more out of intimate settings than the ones where I could have a friend sign the attendance sheet.
3) Better deadlines
Most of the time, your summer professors will work with you if you’re having deadline drama. They’re people, too…and they’re more relaxed since they’re grading less papers. Just let them know what’s going on – and make sure you have a valid excuse!
4) Extracurricular opportunities
Many student organizations use the summer to plan for the upcoming school year. Now’s the best time to get involved. You’d be a power player since you’re still on campus – and those clubs just aren’t for social status. They look awesome on résumés as well.
5) Get to know your college town
If you’re a busy girl year-round, then it’s probably difficult to take advantage of what your city has to offer. Step outside of the library and visit that hole-in-the-wall eatery for some greasy treats, or visit a bar by yourself and get friendly with the locals. See your college town through new eyes.
6) Retain that year-round hustle
Some students use the summer to slack off (must be nice). Not you, you go-getter. If you’re working your ass off during the summer, your transition to the fall semester will be that much easier.
