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Here’s how to decide if working, taking a summer class, or doing both is the best path for you—and how to strike a balance that actually works.
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When finals end and summer 🌞 begins, it’s tempting to want a total reset—no alarms, no deadlines, just freedom. After a long school year, you deserve that exhale. But somewhere between the first lazy week of June and your back-to-school checklist in August, reality kicks in: college costs money. And so does everything else.
“Should I be working right now?”
“Would a summer class help me get ahead?”
“Is there a way to make the most of this time without burning out?”
Whether you’re heading into your freshman year or already in college, summer can be more than a pause—it can be a strategic move. And figuring out how to use it, without overloading yourself, starts with asking the right questions.
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For many students, summer is the prime time to earn money before the costs of college really kick in. Whether it’s saving for tuition, textbooks, or just everyday expenses, a summer job can help reduce how much you’ll need to borrow later. Even part-time work—babysitting, tutoring, retail, food service, freelance gigs—can add up quickly when you’re consistent.
Plus, working during the summer can boost more than just your bank account. It gives you real-world experience, builds your resume, teaches time management, and helps you develop soft skills like communication and responsibility. Many employers value summer job experience just as much as internships—especially if you show up reliably and take your work seriously.
Summer classes can be a smart way to knock out general education credits, repeat a course you didn’t do well in, or lighten your future course load. If you’re behind on credits, want to graduate early, or plan to double major, summer courses can give you a major edge.
They also let you focus on one subject without the usual distractions of a full class schedule. Smaller class sizes and more focused timelines can help you dive deeper into the material. Just make sure the credits will transfer if you’re taking the class outside your regular college—and double-check that the intensity of a condensed course fits your learning style.
Yes—but only if you’re realistic about your time and energy. Taking a summer class while working part-time can be a powerful combo if you’re disciplined and organized. The key is to choose the right balance. For example, a remote class with flexible deadlines might pair well with a part-time job that has predictable hours. On the flip side, trying to juggle two fast-paced responsibilities without enough downtime can lead to burnout.
Start by looking at your schedule. Block out your class hours, work shifts, study time, and actual rest. If it feels packed from morning to night, you may need to cut back. Remember, your well-being matters too. Being productive is great—but not at the expense of your mental health or sleep.
Still unsure about what path to take? Here are some questions to guide your decision:
There’s no wrong answer here—it’s about your goals and what makes the most sense for where you’re headed.
No matter what you choose, don’t skip applying for scholarships during the summer. Free money for college doesn’t take a break! If you’re working or studying, set aside an hour or two each week to search and apply. Small scholarships can stack up quickly—and help reduce the pressure to work more hours or take on debt.
Whether you’re working, taking a class, or juggling both, you don’t have to do this alone. At College Funding Hero, our Fund Your Future student portal gives you tools and tips to make smart money moves year-round.
✅ Weekly scholarship uploads so you never miss out
✅ Application and time management tips
✅ Access to a college funding pro for help planning costs
✅ Ebooks and guides to help you stay ahead financially
👉 Join the Fund Your Future student portal and make the most of your summer—on your terms.
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