Reflecting on Summer Courses and the Impact on Academic Well-Being
Navigating the balance between productivity and well-being during university can be challenging, especially when faced with decisions that may have long-term implications. Recently, I found myself grappling with the choice to enroll in summer courses, and now, I’m questioning whether it was the right move.
After a successful first year, where I maintained a 3.7 GPA, I reached the summer break feeling accomplished. However, without a summer job—primarily because I believed I had sufficient savings—I decided to enroll in two accelerated courses scheduled for May and June. These courses are compressed, meaning they cover the curriculum typically spread out over four months within just two months, effectively doubling the pace.
The decision to take these courses was influenced by external pressures. By the end of April, I was emotionally and physically exhausted and longed for a break. Yet, I pushed myself to enroll, partly motivated by a desire to meet expectations set by family and peers. My older brother’s exciting internship and my parents’ remarks about being “unproductive” added to that pressure.
Throughout May, I procrastinated and only completed the minimum required work, overwhelmed by burnout. Now, I find myself significantly behind, struggling to keep up with the fast-paced coursework. The workload has become unexpectedly heavy, leading to moments of frustration and even tears. I worry that this experience will negatively impact my GPA, and I’m worried about the consequences of withdrawing from these courses, knowing that family opinion might be involved.
Looking back, I realize that I might have been better off taking a proper break rather than rushing into accelerated courses out of external expectations. This situation has taught me the importance of listening to my own needs and recognizing when to push forward and when to prioritize rest. Moving forward, I hope to find a healthier balance between ambition and self-care, ensuring that my academic journey remains sustainable and fulfilling.
Lessons Learned:
– Be mindful of workload intensity and personal capacity before enrolling in accelerated courses.
– Prioritize mental health and well-being alongside academic goals.
– Remember that taking a break can sometimes be more productive than overexerting oneself.
– Communicate openly with family and advisors about your limits and needs.
Everyone’s educational journey is unique, and sometimes, the most important step is knowing when to step back and reassess.