This summer I'm taking 3 classes for a total of 9 credit hours. I have two classes in the June block and one class in the July block. 9 credit hours is considered full time at OU during the summer. During the spring or fall, full time would normally be 12+ credit hours. Let me explain why summer classes are such a big deal. It's because what's normally a 16-week class is condensed down into a 4-week class. There's so much material to cover and that's why it's more difficult. Oh yeah, don't forget I have class on the fourth of July. So, here's my advice if you do take summer classes:
1. Make sure you get plenty of sleep
We've all been there at midnight when we should be going to bed but instead, we're on our phones and get distracted by watching dumb Facebook videos. It's good to set yourself a schedule and hold yourself accountable. I have a "no technology" policy from thirty minutes to an hour before I go to sleep so I can try to let my mind relax.
2. Drink lots of water (and maybe not so much caffeine)
It's really easy for your body to be dependent on caffeine. Instead of drinking coffee, try drinking a cold glass of water in the morning and drinking water throughout the day. It'll wake you up and to stay awake, trust me.
3. The syllabus will always be your best friend
With shorter 4-week classes like this instead of the 16-week classes, it's easy to get confused and lost because the curriculum for these classes are insane. Keep track of your assignments, readings, and test dates in the syllabus. So write everything down in a planner or keep a running to do list.
4. Try to work ahead if possible
In my history class, I have three essays to write so I've already started them and I have a general idea of an outline of the specific things that I want to mention and talk about. But another example would be like in my philosophy class where I can't do the homework ahead of time but I can read the textbook so I have a general idea of what I'm going to be learning about in the coming weeks.
5. FInd a study group
It's good to find a study group or someone in your class who can help you with the things you don't understand and vice versa. I have found this to be so true in my Philosophy class. In class the other day, everyone had an argument about hamburgers. When you're ordering food do you say "I'd like a hamburger with cheese?" or "I'd like a cheeseburger?" but the first example could literally mean that you'd like a hamburger with a side of cheese but who would do that?!
6. Be proud of yourself
Congratulations you've survived! Most people don't take summer classes unless they have to for some bizarre reason, but if you do like taking them props to you. You made it through, knocked out some credit hours, good for you!
7. Reward yourself for your hard work
After everything is all over, go outside and reward yourself. Go do something fun, you deserve it. Go enjoy the rest of the summer!
