It’s been a little over a month since I graduated high school and I never thought that day would come. However, then it hit me, like I’m sure it hit all of you. We’re about to be thrown into the whole new reality of college life. Sure, that does sound amazing and liberating, but if you’re like me, there’s a little bit of fear that comes with that. So, in this last summer before beginning a new chapter in our lives, here are 16 things to do for our graduated class of 2016.
1. Tell your mama that you love her a lot.
This transition is not only going to be hard on you, it will be incredibly hard on your mom too, especially if she’s your best friend like my mom is to me. As a matter of fact, go ahead and give love to your entire family.
2. Just go hang out.
You don’t have any excuses as to why you can’t go do something with your friends this weekend anymore. I was a bit of a nerd, but it paid off! However, this summer is about wrapping it up and being a kid! Don’t worry, you’re going to have a great time.
3. Spend some time with your family.
Realize that your friends aren’t the only ones who aren’t coming with you to college. Your family can’t come either! So, eat supper at home, help mom cook, have movie nights, etc.
4. Take a spontaneous trip.
Go somewhere fun with your friends! Take a day trip to the beach or hike in the mountains.
5. Go to a concert.
I went to an outdoor concert at the beginning of the summer with a couple friends and it was an experience that I’ll always remember. No, it wasn’t a total rager, but it was so much fun to be myself with my friends and to celebrate the ending of our high school careers.
6. Get a VSCO.
I just got an account and it is super cool. I’m not a very artistic person, so this app makes me feel super awesome. It’s nice to share pictures from your summer and not have to worry about getting all of those likes.
7. Get involved with your college.
Go ahead and do some research on clubs and organizations that you may want to be a part of. For example, there's The Odyssey. You’re about to move to a new place for at least four years and you’re going to love it. Get started!
8. Learn how to clean up after yourself (if you don’t already know).
Yes, this means doing your own laundry, finding the floor in your room, and washing dishes. Wow, I can see the mom-smiles already. Mama won’t be there to cater to your every filthy need in college.
9. DIY.
You aren’t fooling anyone by denying that you have a Pinterest full of ideas and crafts for your perfect college dorm room. The time has come to finally get creative! I recently made my own tassel streamer and even a headboard for my room.
10. Write some thank you cards.
Let someone know how much you really appreciate them and all that they do for you.
11. Tie up loose ends.
If there is anything that you did in high school that you regret, anyone who you had a misunderstanding with, or really just an “I’m sorry” that needs to be said, get it done now. I finally reconnected with an old friend after some misunderstandings from a while back and I cannot begin to tell you how great it feels to be at peace.
12. Get moving!
I think I’ve been hearing about the freshman 15 for my entire life. What really doesn’t help is that a Cheesecake Factory just opened down the road from my college. I’ve always been a pretty active person, but it is definitely crucial to find or create an effective and no-equipment-necessary workout routine this summer. There will be enough time in college for you to work off all of the cheesecake, it's just getting motivated to do it that takes some effort.
13. Make some money.
Let's be real. You're leaving your main source of food and material goods: your parents. If you're like me, then you'll most likely want to buy that cute dress in the store window one day or go out to eat with your friends occasionally. It doesn't have to be a super demanding job if that's not quite your pace. It could be babysitting or even something part-time. It's also very impressive to future employers/internships that you used your summer to work.
14. Save that money.
Learn how to budget! My parents have always taught me to put half of what I make into savings, which I understand and appreciate now. College is your first step into the real world, so it's important to know how to dedicate certain amounts for certain expenses.
15. Prioritize.
What is really important to you? What has played a significant role in your life thus far? So many new opportunities and so many new people await you in college. You have a chance to start over or continue down the path that you've been on. Definitely go for a lot of new things in college, but don't lose what makes you you!
16. Take a breather.
This is probably the most important point. Of course, I made you suffer and read everything else before getting here, unless of course you just scrolled to the bottom. Here it is: you aren't in college yet! You are still a kid, you still live at home, you still have your parents and friends surrounding you. Embrace that while you can. Take this time slowly and savor the summer. Don't wish this time away.
