Some may argue that the two and a half months off from school for summer break is not long enough. These 32 weeks of fun are also filled with exams, homework and general stress in regards to facing life in the real world. So it’s safe to assume that the majority of college students look forward to summer beginning around week 12.

However, I know firsthand that it is incredibly easy to get bored when the only things on your daily agenda include sleeping, eating and, maybe, going outside. Here are some ways that you can remain productive during the summer so that when the school year comes around again in early September you don’t find yourself in productivity-shock.

Develop a hobby. The hardest thing about developing a hobby is probably the time commitment. Good thing you don’t have a lot on your summertime agenda! Summer is the perfect time to take up that hobby you’ve always wanted to do. Whether you’ve been curious about the impressive craft ideas on Pinterest or you’re intrigued by the idea of creating a blog, pick an activity and stick to it. No habit or hobby can develop overnight. They take practice and dedication, which both require ample time. 

Embark on a road trip. Suffer from wanderlust? Curious about what the rest of the country looks like? Grab a few friends and a map and hop in a car to embark on a cross-country adventure. Summer is two months long, which is plenty of time for a road trip or two. Head out west and see the Grand Canyon and Vegas. Or head to the east coast and take a tour of Boston, New York City and D.C. Don’t want to be in the car for upwards of 10 hours? See your own state. Whether you’re from Illinois or a different state, take the summer to see the things you haven’t had time to explore. If you are from Illinois take a day trip down to Springfield and explore the natural beauty that Southern Illinois has to offer. There are plenty of things to see right in your own backyard.

Volunteer. I don’t know about you, but warm weather pulls me to the outdoors. Why not do good deeds while enjoying the great outdoors? Half of the battle of becoming an active volunteer is finding a place that interests you. Research a charity or a cause that interests you and find a way to get involved locally. If you don’t feel up to doing research, head to the closest animal shelter, forest preserve or park and ask an employee or a volunteer how you can get involved. If all else fails, ask around. Ask your parents or friends who volunteer, or have in the past, about where they have experience. Not only is there a good chance that you’ll be interested in volunteering at the same place, but you can also put them down as a referral contact in case they ask for a reference.

While summer is a time to relax and take a break from school, don’t let it go to waste. Pick an activity of interest and that you’ll enjoy doing. Because if you’re not having fun during the summer, what good is summer?