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Should I take summer courses before I begin my first semester or wait?

I have the opportunity to take summer courses before my first semester of college. I'm wondering if it would be easier to wait until the following summer, or if getting a head start would be better. #summer-courses

summer-courses
Thank you comment icon I definitely believe in taking courses during high school that could be used towards college. The more credits you can accrue before college starts more time you’ll have to work during school as well as find some time to pursue a new passion Deena Ganger
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Deena’s Answer

I found it very helpful
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Yasemin’s Answer

Hi Cheyenne! So, you may take summer classes if you'd like but just be mindful that college classes are different than high school classes. Summer classes are even more different than college classes during the regular semester. They are fast-paced and are usually complete in about 6-8 weeks. If it's a harder class and one that is important to your GPA I would recommend beginning college and then taking the class during a full semester. If it's a general education class- gen ed- then you can consider taking it, but still be mindful that it's going to be shortened and you have to keep up with the work. You want to do well in your courses and earn a good GPA so if you don't need to take a summer class, I would maybe wait and adjust to college life first. In the end it's up to you and how you feel! I'm sure you'll do well, best of luck!
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Richard’s Answer

There are advantages to taking summer classes before your first semester of college:
1) can help lighten your load during the school year so you can concentrate on a smaller number of classes thus improving your grades and comprehension of the subject.
2) can help keep you on track for graduating on time. This is particularly important if you change your major during school and have to take extra courses.
3) can finish up basic courses so you can concentrate on your field of study during the school year

However disadvantages include:
1) may increase the cost of college. Some universities charge the same price per semester regardless of whether you take a full course load. If your school does this, you may be paying extra for the summer classes.
2) summer is also a good time to explore other opportunities such as research or finding an internship in your field of study.
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Rachel’s Answer

This is totally up to you. If you have other activities planned during the summer, there is no need to take courses during the summer as well. However, if you have no other engagements and would like to complete a few credits ahead of time, that is perfectly acceptable.
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Amit’s Answer

Hi Cheyenne,


Great question. There are many factors to consider before taking summer classes before your first college semester. Have you already have declared a college major, and if so, is it hard to take classes to fulfill the major requirements based on the sheer volume of students wanting to take those classes, leading to long waitlists? Additionally, are there any classes that you would like to get out the way, such as a math class, before you start college? If you answered a definite yes to these questions, then you may want to consider summer school. Summer classes are condensed courses, with a lot of material packed in and are usually much quicker paced than a course throughout the semester.


Since this is the last summer before you start college, you may want to also consider just enjoying the break, spending time with friends and family, going on trips, or any other hobbies you may have. You will have the opportunity to take summer courses during your college tenure as well, but I also recommend looking for internships during the summertime, once you have completed your first year of college.


Hope this helps,

Amit
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