How I Got All A's in Three Summer Classes

The Spring semester is wrapping up! For many, this means a summer vacation with no responsibilities. But for some of us, it means it's time to buckle down, whether it be with school or work. Summer classes are a great way to get classes out of the way if you have the motivation. This will be my second time taking summer classes, so let's talk about how I was able to make straight A's during this semester and how you can, too ;). 

© photo by p.c. kcbanner

Here is a breakdown of my previous summer semester:

May - English ; four weeks 

June - U..S. History ; four weeks
July - Government ; four weeks

As you can see, I took each class in different sessions. If this is your first time taking multiple classes, I highly recommend doing the same. It made it simple to keep up with assignments and focus on each class by not letting them overlap. If there is a class that you believe will be too difficult to take in such a short span of time, consider choosing the six, eight, or ten week option. 

Expect to treat these classes as if they are more difficult than those taken in the spring or fall. 

Always keep in mind that these classes are essentially a condensed version of a normal class, but with the same content. There will not usually be less work, it is the same amount in a shorter time period. Be aware of this, but don't let it stress you out. 

© photo by p.c. فهد التميمي

Plan your classes according to your summer plans. You will likely not be given extensions for being on vacation or away from technology. Professors expect that you are aware of your schedule ahead of registration and will prioritize your classes. Try not to devaluate these classes because they are shorter. They still count toward your overall GPA. 

© photo by Cuba Gallery

Work on a schedule, as if you are physically going to class.

Schedule blocks out of your day to work on assignments and study for each class. Try not to veer from this schedule. Sit down and write your entire day in assignments and try not to move it around. I recommend scheduling your more difficult assignments for earlier in the day, so that you are less likely to put them off to the next day. Try your best not to sleep in, because the morning is a valuable time slot that can be very productive and help you finish your studies earlier in the day.

Work on each class daily, and set a day of the week aside to relax. 
Chances are, if you are taking multiple classes at a time, your assignments will overlap due to so much content. Therefore, it is important not to only work on classes that have deadlines approaching. Instead, prioritize those while still working on classes with deadlines further down the road. This way, you will always be working ahead and not have to worry about cramming. 

© photo by Noha L

Move away from your desk OFTEN. Use your resources

Do not always work in the same place. It helps to go to the kitchen table or the backyard or the couch to diversify your workspace. Also, don't forget about all the resources out there for you to use. Online learning is VERY hands off, so you have to be responsible for yourself. So, look at the assignment well before it's due so that you aren't waiting until the last minute to email your professor any questions (you should take advantage of developing professional relationships with them). Use websites like Khan Academy and Quizlet to exhaust your resources, so that you are in charge of your grade outside of the minimal practice resources you may be given by a professor. 

Read your books!

Chances are, if you are given a textbook for a summer class, it is significant. Remember that your professors expect you to do practice and further study on your own. 

Love you ALL,

Tatiana <3