After spending most of the year in college with an unlimited amount of freedom and endless things to do, entering the summer can be a little overwhelming when you realize how different it is. By the end of the semester everyone can't wait to be home and out of school because we all forget how boring being home really is.
The first few weeks are bliss, but after hitting about week three or four you've completely run out of things to do and that accounting class you took last semester doesn't seem so bad if you could be at school again. Now, in my experience, here are the top ten things you can do to motivate yourself to stay alive through the nagging parents and the hometown blues of boring suburban life.
1. Get a job or internship.
If you can land yourself a job, you're in the clear. It'll give you something to do and provide steady cash flow. But getting one is easier said than done. Most places aren't hiring for the summer and need jobs for the fall, which is obviously out, and the places that do need summer employment are either only hiring old students that worked for them in their high school days OR are completely ruled out. Most of us don't want to be spending our time working behind the McDonald's counter if we can help it.
2. Go on a road trip.
It'll give you the chance to go places you've never been and explore the places you've always wanted to go. The summer is one of the only times you'll have enough free time to go out and see different places with minimal responsibilities, so take advantage.
3. Go to a music festival.
This is by far one of the coolest things you can do over break. The atmosphere is completely different and so much fun. Camping out in a hot tent in the middle of a parking lot ordinarily wouldn't seem like fun, but when you add all your favorite artists it suddenly becomes of the most fun things you can do. It also gives you an excuse to wear weird clothing and accessories that usually aren't accepted elsewhere now that daylong season is over.
4. Go to a different country.
If you can, travel someplace far away from your hometown and soak up the culture of another country. Try foods you'd never try at home and learn all that you can about someone else's culture. It's eyeopening to see how similar and different we are from other countries, and it can be a great learning experience for the future.
5. Redecorate your space.
Sometimes one of the best things you can do for yourself is clear out the old and spruce up the new or recycled. Paint your room a new color, move the furniture and get rid of anything old that you don't need anymore. It'll help you realize how you've grown over the years and can help you clear your head, so you can be more comfortable in your real home even if you're still missing school.
6. Go to the beach.
Nothing feels better than toes in the sand, the shore breeze in your hair, and salty water on your skin. Not to mention it's probably one of the most iconic summer activities out there. If you don't live close to the beach, visit a friend who does! I'm sure we all have at least one awesome friend who lives in Jersey and can put you up for a day or two (Jersey Strong).
7. Visit the city.
It doesn't matter which. City life is always bustling and you can always find something to do. It's great for a day trip with a few friends.
8. Read a good book.
We can't let our brains rot completely, and reading is a great way to keep ourselves engaged and entertained. It'll take up a good chunk of your downtime and will give you something to talk about. A good book can make a world of difference.
9. Go to the gym.
As unglamorous as that sounds, it is necessary. You can tone up for the beach and also make sure that you still look your best when you go back to school. It also will make you feel better and break up the monotony of the day if you take an hour break to run out or lift away whatever frustrations you may be feeling.
10. Get away from it all.
Spend a day or two away from your phone and computer and take some time to reflect on yourself. Take a hike or explore the woods; take time to be with nature. The weather is perfect and you'll get some great alone time to just be silent. Although it's the hardest suggestion, it is the most rewarding. But if you do go on a hike, remember that even if you don't Snapchat it, it still happened.
After all is said and done, being home with your family and home friends is great, and if you keep yourself busy, the summer is a great time. But no matter what, we'll still miss being at school.
