After a stressful semester for all of us, we're all ready for some time off from school, and time to just enjoy what's around us. Here's a list of ten things to look forward to this summer after a long, hard academic school year.
1. Read a book…for fun!
When was the last time you read a book cover to cover just to read it? One of the greatest pleasures is just being able to spend the day lying in bed or sitting out on the porch with a good book in your hands.
2. Catch up on a TV series.
Okay so many of you probably kept up with TV on the reg throughout the year, but now you can do it without any guilt! So go on – watch whatever you want, whenever you want without feeling bad that you're not being productive.
3. Enjoy the outdoors.
Spend more of your days outside than in your house. For the past five months, we've all been cooped up in the library studying our butts off. It's time we remind ourselves what fresh air feels like. Get out there! Go on a picnic with a good friend. Find a mountain to hike. Go camping – even if it's just in your backyard. Enjoy the fresh air before we're stuck in the library once more.
4. Go to a drive-in movie.
It's fun, relaxing, and a perfect place to just hang out with your friends. Plus, drive-ins tend to be cheaper than going to the regular movie theaters – especially when there are double features.
5. Star gaze.
Find a field, away from the city and just lay there. Look up into the night sky and embrace the beauty of the stars. Try to find the constellations. Or if you get confused like me, just pretend you know what you're looking at.
6. Go to a concert (or two).
What's better than sitting in the grass and jamming along to one of your favorite bands in the summer night? Concerts are one of the best places to make some of the greatest summer memories with your friends.
7. Go for a drive.
Don't plan for a destination. Just get in the car with your best friend and drive. Let your instincts guide you – especially when your instincts tell you to turn around. But don't be afraid to go on a spontaneous drive to nowhere. You'll never know where you might find yourself in an hour or two.
8. Enjoy food.
Who cares about the beach bod? Summertime foods are the best types of foods. You've got the freshest fruits, the juiciest meats, the most mouth-watering ice cream treats. Why starve yourself from these delicious foods that only taste this good once a year?
9. Tell someone you love them.
It doesn't matter who it is – just make sure you mean it. Nothing would make the summer sweeter than to be reminded that you're loved. Tell your parents, your siblings, your best friend, a summer crush, your dog/cat. Whoever it is, I know you'll make their summer that much better.
10. Get hype for football.
It's never too early get yourself excited about college football season to start up again. For most, football is the pride and joy of their university and college experiences. It's the best way to kick-off your weekend – no pun intended – and I can guarantee that 99 percent of us are already ready to be back to enjoy some [Hokie] football once more.
