Reflecting on Summer Courses: A Cautionary Tale for University Students
Summer is often seen as a valuable opportunity for academic growth, internships, or simply taking a well-deserved break. However, making the decision to take summer courses—especially compressed ones—can sometimes lead to unforeseen challenges. Here’s a look at one student’s experience and lessons learned along the way.
A Solid Academic Start and a Change of Plans
Starting university on a positive note, I managed to achieve a 3.7 GPA in my first year. With the academic year behind me, I initially planned to enjoy the summer break. I didn’t pursue summer employment, mainly because I felt financially secure, but in hindsight, this lack of planning might have been a missed opportunity. To stay engaged and productive, I opted to enroll in two accelerated courses over the summer months, even though they condensed a full semester’s workload into just two months.
The Challenge of Accelerated Learning
The decision was driven partly by external pressures—I didn’t want to be seen as unproductive by my family or my older brother, who is currently engaged in an impressive internship. That said, I was also feeling burnt out by the end of the semester and hoped a lighter summer would help me recharge. Unfortunately, procrastination and exhaustion took their toll. I spent much of May doing the bare minimum, simply waiting for the courses to begin.
Once classes started, I faced an intense workload at a much faster pace than I was accustomed to. Despite my initial intentions, I quickly felt overwhelmed. The compressed format meant twice the speed for a shorter period, making it difficult to keep up and absorb the material effectively. The intensity even brought me to tears at times—I underestimated how demanding the accelerated courses would be.
Reflecting on the Impact
Looking back, I realize that taking these summer courses may have been a mistake. My GPA is at risk, and I worry that withdrawing might lead to disappointment or criticism from my family. The pressure to appear constantly productive overshadowed my well-being, and now I’m facing the consequences.
Key Takeaways for Students
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Assess Your Limits: While ambitious plans are admirable, understanding your capacity is crucial. Accelerated courses are demanding and may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you’re already feeling drained.
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Balance is Essential: Summer should be a time to rejuvenate or pursue personal interests. If opting for academic work, ensure it aligns with your mental and physical health.
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