Last night I began good ol’ summer school! Although I took some summer courses last year online, last night was my first time in a real classroom during the summer time. And I will admit, it wasn’t all that bad!
Maybe it was because it was raining and cold and wet, so it didn’t feel too much like summer, but the anxiety I had about “missing out on summer” by being stuck in a classroom simply wasn’t there. I actually think I’m going to really like my course. It’s all about classroom assessment at the Intermediate/Senior levels (sounds dry, I know) but thanks to a good instructor and a Mars bar I got through the first class alright.
The real downside to summer school I’ve discovered, isn’t missing out on the sunshine, it’s missing out on sleep. I’ve learned over my years as a student that my brain shuts down after approx. 6:00 pm. So, doing a course from 6-10 pm is not good for my concentration levels or morale. I got through it though – plus it’s only for 4 weeks or so – how bad can it be? (ask me this question again 4 weeks from now I will probably respond differently)
Regardless though, summer school is a great option for students who want to maintain a balanced lifestyle. During the fall and winter semesters I enjoy working part-time, hanging out with my friends, working out, and school work has to fit in somewhere too. So what I’ve decided to do (especially being in Concurrent Education where the expected course load for one fall/winter semestered year is 6 courses) is complete 1 summer course a year and 5 during the fall and winter. This way I can complete everything I want to do. Sure my true summer break from school doesn’t start until a little bit later than others, but at least I’m not a as stressed out during the school year!
