For people who have taken summer courses at Mac: Although you probably have the same amount of time in class as a course taken during the year (Sept-April), would you say that you learned less or just as much as a friend who took it during the main year?

More. You are intensely focused on the subject with fewer other academic demands.

They generally cover a little less material in a summer school class, but make sure to hit each critical component. Usually people think that the instructor is easier on the students, hence better averages, but it is definitely due to the fact of much smaller class sizes (depending on the course). There is much more interaction between the students and staff, so although the person you know may be taking the course in the winter, your understanding of the concepts will be more thorough if taken throughout the summer. That is only my personal opinion, so take it with a grain of salt and best of luck!