Our summer semester is in full swing at Centennial College, and if you’re taking classes with us, you’ve definitely noticed the campus is much quieter, the weather is warmer, and everyone’s outside. In this kind of environment, succeeding at your education can be both easier and harder at the same time. But there are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of your time in our summer classes. Places like College Magazine and Study have a lot to say about it, but there are a few common themes, that as a former summer school student myself, I can say are true.
Take advantage of the smaller class sizes, and get to know your teacher and fellow students
One of the great advantages of summer school is how much smaller your classes will be, and Centennial already has small class sizes. The big benefit of these small class sizes is everyone getting the time to know each other, and that includes the instructor teaching you.
In fact, you should talk to yours as soon as possible, both to introduce yourself so they know you, and so you can get advice and tips on how to succeed in the class. They’ll get to know you as well, which will come in handy when the workload gets heavy. You’ll be able to ask them for help and interact with them more directly during your classes, especially the really challenging ones. Plus, when things get tough, it’ll be easier to ask them for help in the future.
Use the fewer distractions to really focus
If you’re taking summer courses, there’s a good chance you’re working with a reduced course load. Combine that with the fact that a college campus in the summer is a lot quieter, and it means you can really focus on the classes you do have especially the more challenging classes. With less going on, it’s just easier to balance your work/life time better. In those smaller classes, you have time to ask questions and really understand your course material.
Understand the realities of the workload
On the other hand, don’t assume your classes are going to be any easier. In fact, the shorter summer schedule may mean that they’re a bit harder, since the classes will be focused on the important elements, and large assignments will be due closer together. Don’t panic, but don’t go into this assuming that just because it’s summer, things will be as breezy as the weather.
Be sure to relax a bit
As a summer student, you’ll want to avoid distractions so you can concentrate on your classes. Despite this, you should still take a bit of personal time to relax and enjoy the warm weather. It’s good for you, and can improve your overall academic performance, as well as giving you boosts to your creativity and concentration. The downtown core of Toronto is nearby, and there’s plenty going on in the city over the summer, so you should take some time to explore it. It’s all about finding balance, making time for both yourself and your workload.
By Anthony Geremia