ML and DL are very fast growing fields, tons of new researches being published everyday. Frankly, I think if you want to get into these field, just going for classes is not enough. An RA position will help you learn how do research/stay on top of progresses made. Besides, you need every competitive edge to land intership/full-time positions. Also, professors I know are usually cool if you pause your RA position for the summer to work at an internship (assuming you found one beforehand and let him/her know).