One of the biggest shocks about college compared to high school is how much freedom you have in picking your class schedule. At the University of Alabama (and most schools), you get to choose between morning, afternoon, and even night classes. Sounds great in theory… until you realize that each one comes with its own challenges.
Morning classes test your ability to wake up on time. Night classes test your ability to stay focused when you’d rather be anywhere else. The good news? You can survive, and even thrive, in either. Here’s the breakdown of what to expect, plus tips for making it work no matter when you’re in class.
The Morning Class Life
Morning classes can feel brutal, especially if you’re not a morning person. But they also have hidden perks: fewer distractions, earlier finishes, and the satisfaction of having the rest of the day ahead of you.
Pros of Morning Classes:
- Campus is quieter- fewer crowds in the Rec, the Ferg, or Starbucks if you go early.
- You’re done with academics earlier, which leaves afternoons free for clubs, work, or naps.
- Professors sometimes prefer mornings too, which can make for a sharper, more focused class.
Cons of Morning Classes:
- Waking up consistently is tough (especially after a late night).
- Breakfast? Most people skip it.
- Sitting through an 8 AM lecture can feel like fighting for your life.
Tips to Survive Morning Classes:
- Prep the night before: Lay out clothes, pack your backpack, and set two alarms.
- Start with movement: A five-minute stretch or walk wakes you up better than scrolling TikTok.
- Fuel up: Even a granola bar or coffee makes a difference.
- Reward yourself: Build in a post-class ritual like grabbing Dunkin’ or sitting on the Quad.
The Night Class Grind
Night classes are usually once or twice a week and longer in duration. Think two to three hours. They’re great for freeing up your daytime schedule, but they test your patience and focus when the rest of campus is winding down.
Pros of Night Classes:
- Fewer sessions per week (a single 3-hour class can replace 3 shorter ones).
- Days free for work, internships, or just sleeping in.
- Campus is quieter and parking is often easier.
Cons of Night Classes:
- Long attention span required — zoning out is real.
- Eating at weird times (you’ll want dinner before, snacks during, or both).
- Harder to rally after if your friends are making plans.
Tips to Survive Night Classes:
- Eat first: Don’t roll into a 3-hour lecture hungry. It’s impossible to focus.
- Pack snacks + water: Something light (trail mix, fruit) helps keep your energy up.
- Stay engaged: Take notes by hand, ask questions, or find small ways to stay involved.
- Schedule downtime after: Give yourself a buffer before bed, even if it’s just 20 minutes of relaxing.
Which One Is Better?
Honestly, it depends on your personality and lifestyle.
- Morning classes work best if: You like structure, want afternoons free, or need accountability to wake up.
- Night classes work best if: You’re a night owl, have a job or internship during the day, or prefer fewer long classes to multiple short ones.
Neither is “better” across the board, it’s about how you manage your time and energy.
Example Survival Routines
Here’s what an ideal day might look like depending on your schedule:
Morning Class Student
- 7:00 AM: Wake up, quick stretch, granola bar + coffee.
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Classes.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch
- Afternoon: Gym, library, or club meetings.
- Night: Social time, homework, or just relax, you’re free!
Night Class Student
- Morning: Sleep in or hit the Rec.
- Afternoon: Work, study, or hang out.
- 5:00 PM: Early dinner or snack.
- 6:00 – 9:00 PM: Night class.
- 9:30 PM: Chill, eat again if needed, then wind down before bed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dragging yourself to an 8 AM or trying to stay awake in a 3-hour lecture at night, both types of classes are survivable with the right mindset. The trick is knowing yourself, preparing for the challenges, and building little routines that make it easier.
Morning classes give you structure. Night classes give you freedom. Either way, you’ll get through, and maybe even enjoy it, once you figure out how to play to your strengths.
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