Take the Umm Out of Summer
Some of you barely began the Spring semester before dreaming and planning for summer. Others keep thinking of summer as off in the future until all of a sudden it sneaks up on you and smacks you in the face. It’s like that scene in Monty Python and the Holy Grail where the two castle guards see Sir Lancelot running toward them in the distance. His approach raises no alarm because they know he’s coming but he seems so far away. But the next thing you know one soldier is fatally wounded and the other is hopelessly confused.
So to those of you who are “dead” or dazed, this is your wake up call. Sir Lancelot…I mean, summer is here and it’s time to take the guess work out. The choices you make concerning the break can have significant implications. Here are just a few worthy endeavors that done on their own or in combination can make summer, in one way or another, quite profitable.
Take time to recharge
I mention this one first because when we typically talk about getting the most out of something we assume that involves a lot of activity. I don’t think that is necessarily the case. You have theoretically worked hard for two semesters and a little planned down time can be critical to your future success. Planned implies purposeful and thought out, quite the opposite of “umm…”
Recharging may be getting rest or relaxation, connecting with friends and family, pleasure reading, personal hobbies or sports and exercise. These are all valuable activities and may prepare you mentally, emotionally and physically for the next academic year.
Enroll in summer courses
Did you know that summer is a great time to get caught up or get ahead on completing your degree at a fraction of the cost? You can take online classes with Bryan for approximately 70% less per credit than the regular fall/spring charge. If you go back home there is potential for you to enroll in even less expensive summer courses at a community college that may transfer back into your program at Bryan. Just remember to chat with your advisor before taking any courses to ensure they fit into your major.
Taking summer courses may hasten your graduation, saving you money on extra semesters, and it would enable you to enter the job market sooner. Plus, Bryan has some great summer courses available including Environmental Science, Christian Theology and Human Trafficking. Depending on your circumstances, you may also qualify for financial aid so be sure to see the aid office.
Go on an adventure
There is no time like summer to plan an exciting vacation or service trip. Although there is usually cost involved, the benefits may be well worth it if you plan it correctly and ensure it will not negatively impact your ability to pay for school in the Fall. There are so many places to go and things to see, as well as opportunities for service, that may not be as feasible at other times in your life. It can be as simple as a road trip or project in the States or as elaborate as an international excursion.
Look at your trip as an opportunity to learn and grow. Experience the basics of trip planning and budgeting, discover first-hand new places and things, make a difference in the lives of others or explore informative and insightful events, museums, art galleries and exhibits.
Earn extra cash/resume build
There is very little that sets a job seeker apart like real-world experience. Employers know that theoretical knowledge does not always translate into practical skills in the work place. A summer job can not only help build up savings for college but it can provide you with invaluable tools that will make you a hot commodity in the marketplace. Being wise about summer job selection as it relates to your future career and treating the position very seriously can be an excellent resume builder.
And, as already mentioned, the earnings from seasonal employment can help pay the tuition bill or give you spending cash during the semester if you are careful not to let it “burn a hole” in your proverbial pocket.
No more lion around
Summer holds a lot of opportunity and potential. The options are numerous and failing to make a plan can be costly in more ways than one. Like Sir Lancelot, summer is here whether you like it or not. This can be the summer of unbelievably good things or simply the summer of umm…believable regret. Make the most of summer. That’s the bottom lion.