YouAlberta
By Liz
The temperatures are rising, and classes are likely the last thing on the minds of many students right now… unless you're taking a spring or summer class that is.
But why would you want to do that?
I'll be honest, I asked myself that question last year, but now that I've taken a few spring & summer courses, I wish that someone had told me about all the benefits of spring/summer courses much sooner!
Here are my top 8 reasons why you should take a spring/summer class.
1. Terms are Short
Most courses are only 3-6 weeks long and you can take up to two courses each term. This still leaves time for travel or work!
2. Get Pesky Courses Out of the Way
If you have a pesky course you need for your degree that you're really not looking forward to (we all have them), then why not see if it's available to take in the spring/summer? Knock it out in three weeks so you don't have to sit through three months of it in the fall!
3. Focus on the Tough Stuff
Do you have one of those dreaded classes that you really aren't sure you can make it through (or need to try it again)? Try it in the spring or summer! With only one or two courses on the go at a time it is much easier to put all your focus into the tough stuff as you won't have four other courses to do too.
4. Lighten Your Fall/Winter Course Load
If you prefer to take fewer courses per semester, taking spring/summer courses can help lighten your fall/winter course load while still letting you finish your degree in the same amount of time.
5. Fast Track Your Degree
By the same token, taking spring/summer courses can help you finish your degree faster if you're game to keep your full course load in the fall/winter. If the stars align, you can even finish your degree up to two semesters early!
6. Small Class Sizes
Being in large classes can be loud, distracting, and downright suffocating at times. Not to fear! Most spring/summer classes cap out at ~30 students, which also means…
7. More One-on-one Interactions
The small class sizes give you the time to get to know your prof and classmates, which can help to improve and personalize your learning experience.
8. See Campus in Bloom
Did you know that campus is not always covered in snow, and that flowers actually grow here? That's right! In the spring the natural beauty of campus really starts to show. Have your lunch by the pond, stop for a game of frisbee in Quad. Hell, you can literally stop and smell the roses if you want.
You can add/drop summer courses until July 11. Classes begin July 8. Learn more about Spring/Summer studies through the Office of the Registrar.Learn more about Spring/Summer studies through the Office of the Registrar.