Reflecting on Summer Courses and Lessons Learned: A Student’s Journey
Navigating the college experience often involves making difficult decisions, especially when it comes to balancing coursework, personal well-being, and family expectations. Recently, I found myself questioning a choice I made during summer break—a decision that has left me feeling regretful and overwhelmed.
After completing my first year of university with a solid GPA of 3.7, I was relieved and proud of my academic progress. With summer ahead and no immediate plans for a job—partly because I felt comfortable financially—I decided to enroll in two accelerated courses scheduled for May and June. These courses are condensed into half the usual timeframe, meaning two months of material crammed into a shorter period compared to the standard four-month semester.
Initially, I thought I could handle the intense pace. However, by late April, I was already feeling drained and burnt out. Despite this, I pushed myself to start the courses, mainly because I was concerned about family and peer perceptions. My older brother had an impressive internship to showcase, and I didn’t want to seem unmotivated in comparison. My parents also expected me to stay productive during the break.
Throughout May, procrastination became my companion as I merely fulfilled the minimum requirements, desperately wishing for a break. Now, as I catch up and grapple with the accelerated workload, I realize I was unprepared for the intensity. Last night, I even broke down emotionally, overwhelmed by the heavy demands and looming deadlines. I can’t help but feel that taking these courses has potentially jeopardized my GPA and overall academic standing.
Considering withdrawal seems like an option, but I worry about the repercussions—my family would inevitably find out, and I fear their disappointment. Honestly, at this point, I feel there’s little chance to recover from this misstep.
This experience has taught me the importance of listening to my own needs and being honest about my limits. Sometimes, taking a step back and prioritizing mental health is more valuable than pushing through at the cost of well-being. If you’re contemplating similar decisions, remember that your health and peace of mind should come first. It’s okay to reassess and adjust your plans—your future self will thank you.