Summer semester enrollment is now open at local colleges and universities in Southern Maine. Our clients have been working with their life skills coaches to assess academic goals and enroll in classes accordingly. Although a summer off from school is appealing, taking classes during the summer should be considered. Whether you’re aiming to catch up, explore new subjects, or (re)integrate yourself into a school setting, a summer semester experience provides a valuable opportunity to set and achieve individualized goals. In this blog, Cornerstones of Maine life skills coaches Megan McCue and Anne Downey identify three examples of academic goals and motivators for college students to enroll in summer classes. 

3 Examples of Academic Goals for College Students entering Summer Semester: 

1. Maintain a consistent routine
2. Take advantage of the summer structure
3. Explore new subjects or interests…for fun! 

1. Maintain a consistent routine

Taking summer classes is a great way to maintain a healthy routine and structure. Additionally, sticking to this routine supports good academic hygiene. For many young adults who struggle with executive functioning, an extended summer break can make it challenging to sustain motivation. It can be really hard for them to reignite the fire after a summer away from the classroom. By setting a goal to continue taking classes during the summer months, college students can sustain their momentum and ensure a smooth transition into the fall semester. This goal not only fosters discipline but also reinforces the habit of continuous learning, which is essential for academic success.

2. Take advantage of the summer structure 

According to the University of South Florida, the summer semester is the second most common start term for incoming college students. The truncated class schedules and lower attendance rates offer a unique opportunity for college students to expedite their academic goals. For some individuals, an intensive four to six week course schedule could simply be a more ideal structure for their learning style and lifestyle. Summer semester is also a great time for students to fulfill general requirements or catch up on credits. Additionally, lower attendance rates can be advantageous for young adults who struggle in social settings. This is an ideal time for students to acclimate to campus and find their classes with more ease. Setting this goal not only accelerates academic progress but also allows students to tackle schoolwork and navigate the social landscape of college in a more concentrated and manageable timeframe.

3. Explore new subjects or interests…for fun! 

Summer semester presents an opportunity to explore new subjects or interests without the stress of a full academic load. “Setting a goal to enroll in a summer class purely for enjoyment or personal enrichment can be both refreshing and rewarding,” says Life Skills Coach Anne Downey. Whether it’s delving into a hobby, learning a new language, or exploring a subject outside of one’s major, taking a summer class for fun can reignite the passion for learning and provide a much-needed break from the rigors of traditional coursework. For example, some of our clients are enrolling in courses specific to their hobbies such as History of Modern Sports for the sports fans and Deviance and Crime for those who enjoy diving into true crime. This goal promotes intellectual curiosity and encourages students to embrace learning as a lifelong pursuit, beyond the requirements of their individual academic track or degree coursework.

Conclusion: 

As college students prepare for the summer semester, setting clear and achievable academic goals is essential for maximizing productivity and success. Whether it’s maintaining consistent study habits, utilizing the summer structure for efficient credit accumulation, or exploring new subjects for personal enrichment, these goals empower students to make the most of their summer semester experience. By prioritizing their academic pursuits and staying focused on their objectives, students can position themselves for continued growth and achievement in their academic journey.