As the spring semester wraps up, you may be thinking about what your summer is going to look like if you’re staying on campus. College students stay at college during summer for various reasons, whether that be taking summer classes, doing an internship on campus, or not wanting to go home for the entire summer break.
Summer is also a great time to really slow down on campus and enjoy it. There are usually fewer students around and you can explore it differently than before. Parking is much easier and there are often fewer lines everywhere. Summer classes are usually smaller in size, which makes it a great time to take those more advanced classes. If this is your first summer staying on campus, there are a few things to keep in mind so you can enjoy your summer to the fullest.
Living on Campus
If you’re planning on living on your college campus over summer break, it may seem a little different than your other semesters. Some colleges may have a different lease type for summer college students while other colleges don’t let students stay on campus unless they are actually enrolled in classes. If you would like to stay on campus during the summer, be sure to check with your college to see if there are any changes in requirements. While you’re living on campus during summer break, you may notice fewer people in the college dorms and apartments. This is a great way to make new friends and get to know people you may not have ever even seen before. You may end up having a great time together and making lifelong friends.
Taking Summer Session Classes
When you take summer classes on campus, be prepared for a different type of semester. Summer classes often have fewer students which makes it a great time to take those harder classes that need extra attention. Taking classes over the summer can also help you achieve the full-time status you may need to keep your scholarships and grants. Some schools may even require you to take a class during the summer so keep that in mind when making your schedule. You’ll see fewer people on campus, so that will make it easier to find some great studying spots to make sure you ace your next test. Summer classes have a different timeline than spring and fall classes so be extra mindful of that when planning your summer.
Working and Interning on Campus
Finding a summer job or internship on campus is a great way to build up your resume and get real experience in your degree-related field. You are usually allowed to stay on the campus when you’re working or interning for your college, so it can be a good time to get used to your school. You’ll be able to see professors and other professionals on the college campus and make meaningful connections with them. Networking while you’re in college is very important and can be the perfect way to land another job or internship later on. Use this summer job or internship to gain professional experience without all the distractions of taking a full-time course load.
Keeping Your Financial Aid
Check with your financial aid advisor to make sure you will be covered for your summer semester. If you have already taken out your maximum financial aid or won’t be eligible for full-time benefits, you may be in a tricky situation. However, summer semesters can be cheaper if you’re taking a smaller course load. So, you could possibly pay out of pocket. It’s important to know all your financial aid options for your college career before deciding to stay on campus in the summer.
Pros and Cons of Staying on Campus in the Summer
Pro: You’ll get to stay in your college town.
For some students, going back to your hometown during the summer break may not be the best option. College towns for students are like a second home for many. For some, it is their only home. Staying on campus over the summer can make your college town feel like your actual home.
Con: Staying on campus during the summer will definitely cost you.
You’ll have to pay for housing and parking like you would for the other semesters. There may be a difference in the cost as well, so you will have to check with your individual school to see what the prices are. Oftentimes, summer dorm packages will not come with a meal plan if there are not enough students on campus. You may have to buy groceries more often than you did during your spring and fall semesters.
Pro: You can be with your friends.
If all your friends plan on staying on campus in the summer, you’ll be able to hang out with them. Since you have more free time than you did during the spring and fall semesters, you all can do things you didn’t have the time to do before. You can explore your college town and have fun together. You can even take day trips to the nearby towns and feel more independent than if you went home.
Con: You may miss your family and hometown friends.
For some students, going home for the summer semester is too much of a hassle because of the travel. International students often can’t go home because it would not be easy or financially possible. College students may have to stay on campus over summer break which may make them homesick. Invite your friends and family to visit you so you won’t feel as homesick throughout the summer.
Staying on campus in the summer is no small decision. There are a lot of factors to consider before determining your best route. Seeing your college campus in a new light without that many students there will be a great experience. Knowing all the facts about staying on your college campus over the summer will help you navigate it better and really enjoy your time. Even though you’re staying on campus, you can still enjoy your summer vacation!
