Students at Wilfrid Laurier University are discovering the many benefits of taking classes during the spring and summer semesters.
Laurier offers three kinds of academic terms in spring: the general spring term from May to August, the intersession term from May to June, and the summer term from July to August.
Taking courses during this period can help students further their academic careers while lightening their fall and winter course loads.
“I’d say the benefit is fast-tracking. Some classes are only 6 weeks, so if you’re looking for shorter classes, it’s great,” said Caroline Ekuajomi, a second-year computer science student taking the twelve-week course CP213. “It’s different because there aren’t as many students as usual, so it’s not as great socially as during the school year.”
Summer semesters also give students the opportunity to accelerate their degrees and potentially graduate earlier, while still allowing time to balance work and relaxation over the holiday.
“I’d say do it if it’s online or you live in Waterloo. If you do the 6-week course, you still basically have your summer to enjoy and relax. It’s a win-win,” Ekuajomi said.
Class sizes during the summer are typically smaller, which can be beneficial for students who like to engage with their professors.
When asked about his experience, Ray Shellhammer, a third-year Bachelor of Science biology major, said he appreciated the lower stress of the semester. “Your instructors get to know you a lot better, they’ll talk to you more personally and answer a lot more of your questions.”
“Usually, you won’t have the main professors teaching. You’ll have either PhD students or instructors,” said Shellhammer.
Shellhammer added that he was surprised by how approachable instructors were, saying that when he had issues with his labs, he was able to directly reach out for support.
He also emphasized the difference in the campus environment during the spring and summer months. With fewer students on campus, he found it easier to study without fighting to find space.
“I prefer the spring-summer campus vibe. Being on campus when it’s not freezing, or wet, or gross is so much nicer,” he said.
For students interested in taking spring or summer courses next year, planning ahead is key. Looking at available courses in advance can help students complete prerequisites needed for fall and winter terms.
There are also many work opportunities to be found on campus, allowing students to balance employment with their studies.
With blended and online course options available, spring and summer classes have become more accessible than ever before.
Contributed Photo/Clara Rose
