If you go to college or university, there's a chance you won't get all the classes you need in the same time frame--and if you want to graduate in a timely manner, you may need to take a summer class at a local community college. This is actually a great plan, since community college courses can lessen your load, but there are more things to consider.

Pros:

--Getting into a summer course can reduce your workload significantly during the school year. While that may be a given, it's important to note that sometimes you can shave off a semester or so from your total amount of time spent in college. For example, I'm taking a Statistics course in the evenings at Normandale Community College while working in the mornings, and this will help shave off some time before I apply to the nursing program at Mankato. I get really excited when I think about graduating in four years instead of four-and-a- half or five.

--Community college prices are usually lower than their campus-living counterparts. Instead of paying room and board in your tuition, you're just paying for the course and the textbook (and gasoline). It's a great option, especially if you consider the fact that you're accelerating your graduation date so you can get a professional career and salary faster.

--The course itself may be less difficult. Depending on the school you go to, the course may be much easier. My Statistics course is comparably easier than the one at Mankato, and the credits transfer over beautifully. That being said, it's a college course--it'll be difficult either way, but hopefully, it will be a lot more manageable than taking it at the same time as other difficult courses.

Cons:

--Making friends is a little harder. Living at college brings a sense of community, and friendships come along easily when you're around each other constantly. At a summer class, there's a high likelihood that your fellow students all come from different schools and areas. Everyone has their set group of friends already, and some people aren't looking to make more. Even though you're only around each other for a few hours, put your best food forward and make a small study group. Think of it as the "Hunger Games"--make some allies so your grades don't die.

--Summer courses often cut down work hours. Unless you are an expert at time management, taking a summer course can seriously dig into your working life. I work a few hours in the morning and go to class at night when I could be working both shifts, and I miss out on around a $100 per week. But if you put it in perspective, you're shaving off time from your total college commitment and thus allowing yourself to enter the professional world, so it all balances out.

All of these statements have been through my experience--there hasn't been an instance where I have regretted taking a summer course, even with the long drive to and from. If it means I get to graduate a semester early, I'm going to do whatever it takes. If you choose to take a summer course, I wish the best for you, and will cheer you on.