But why summer in the first place?
Why Summer Matters
For children, summer is a time of freedom, playing outside until dark, biking everywhere, ice cream trucks, and beach vacations. In other words, magic. In high school, maybe there's a part- time job here or there. College is a whole different beast.
GPA requirements must be met.
Tuition payments are due.
Career choices need to be made.
Summer is the time to get ahead of the stress and many responsibilities that come with the school year by taking college courses.
Benefits of Summer Courses
- Higher Focus: Students often take five to six classes per semester, so some classes get more attention than others. Summer is a great time to focus on only one or two classes, especially if the course might be something more difficult in your major.
- Full Flexibility: Summer courses are typically offered online, which gives you more freedom. However, there are other options if your college offers only in- person classes. At Portage Learning, students can enroll in courses and begin taking them at any time. The courses are self-directed, fully accredited, and can be transferred to other schools, making them perfect for summer break.
- Earned Credits: Using the summer to take some credits might lighten a potentially difficult next semester or even allow you to graduate ahead of time. If you're not taking a class at your college, just make sure those credits will be able to transfer.
- Easier Workload: While summer classes have a shorter duration, they still fulfill the same number of credits as any fall or spring semester class would. However, with the shortened amount of time over summer break and the higher attention given to the class, things go by quicker. On top of this, the coursework and assignment load might be less, though it varies depending on the subject.
- Smaller Class Size: Summer classes often have fewer students. This allows for more personal instruction and help from the professor. At Portage Learning, enrolled students are paired one-on-one with a professor for all their academic needs during the course's duration.
During the school year, every moment feels as if you're behind. The next due date, the next assignment, another exam is coming up — it's a lot. Taking some of those tough courses over summer break is the right time to get ahead of the school year's madness.
Looking to Get Ahead This Summer?
Make your summer count by exploring our online college courses that match your interests. Students go to summer school as a smart way to get ahead. Look into courses here to get ahead this summer!
