Written By: Katie Stone

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Taking college courses over the summer may not be the most fun, but they will be very rewarding! When I take classes over the summer, it allows me to take one less class during the fall and spring semesters. Since I am an athlete, I do not have as much time on my hands to do a lot of schoolwork. So, only having to take three classes instead of four, helps to reduce my work load dramatically.

While taking summer courses is great, do not take them if you know you will not have the time to put forth the effort the course needs. It will be a waste of money and a poor grade in classes will lower your cumulative grade point average. The following tips will help to ensure you do well in your summer courses.

PRINT & USE the syllabus!

The professor has handed you the golden ticket, use it! All due dates, expectations for the class, and contact information for the professor are all included in a syllabus. Make sure to always have it handy whenever you’re in class, since professors tend to make adjustments to it.

Set time aside to complete assignments.

Start homework before it is due to ensure you are not scrambling last minute, or stressed because you do not understand the material. If you wait until the last minute you also won’t have time to ask and receive help. This could result in getting a bad grade on your assignment, which could hurt your grade. (Editor’s Note: I recommend using a planner to help keep you organized and to schedule your day.)

Work extra hard in the beginning.

I know that summer is supposed to be all about no responsibilities, but start off working extra hard in your classes. Always maintain a positive attitude and put 100% effort into your work. It’s a slippery slope, do not begin sliding head first.

Do not be afraid to ask for help.

That is what the professor and your peers are there for! I am sure someone else has a similar question or would benefit from clarification. Also, make sure to visit your teacher, or teacher assistants, during their office hours if you need extra help outside class. 

 

Meet ALL requirements.

I frequently had discussion posts that required a minimum word count and an in text citation. It was very rare that peers actually met those requirement, and it negatively impacted their grades. Following all the requirements on assignments will help you get an A on them.