We all know that summer vacation is a chance to have a break from homework, friend drama, all-nighters, and bad dining hall food, but summer doesn't have to be boring. It is an opportunity to hang out with friends and go on adventures. Here are a few ways to stay occupied during these hot months!
1. Go on a hike.
Summer is a perfect time to go on a hike! If you go early enough you can watch the sunrise and not worry about it being too hot. Plus, hikes are beneficial for getting rid of that freshman 15 we all gained.
2. Go to the pool or beach.
Nothing says summer better than laying on a towel with the sand in every crevice of your body and turning a nice shade of lobster red. It is so relaxing to hear either the waves hitting the shore, or the life guard blowing his whistle at the children running. Sun, surf, and shirtless boys are my favorite things about summer!
3. Watch endless amounts of Netflix.
Every time I start a new show I try to see if I can break my record for episodes watched in a day. Summer is a great time to work on my Netflix game! It finally gives me a chance to catch up on all the episodes of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" that I haven't seen before.
4. Read a book.
I know you're thinking that since it's summer you shouldn't even have to pick up a book, but reading is very relaxing and gives you something to do when you are at the pool spying on the cute lifeguard. I suggest reading funny and carefree books during the summer such as, "Seriously... I'm Kidding" by Ellen Degeneres or "Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)" by Mindy Kaling.
5. Start a new hobby.
Hobbies are great way to pass the long days until you go back to school. Maybe you will start painting and find out you are really good at it, or maybe you will spend your whole summer knitting scarfs for everyone in your family (me in the summer of 2012). Make it your goal to learn how to play the piano or finish building a bird house. These will keep you busy and give you a break from all the family time you've been having.
6. Take a road trip.
Road trips can be difficult to do since you are in college and are most likely broke, but you can take a fun smaller road trip. Get your friends together and make a plan to spend a day driving to your closest city and doing all the tourist things. Go shopping, visit hole-in-the-wall coffee shops, and take silly photos.
7. Get a job.
Nobody wants to get a job for the summer. Everyone wants to relax and lay on the couch for three weeks, but unfortunately there are only so many episodes of "Real Housewives" that you can watch until you realize how broke you are. During the summer months, employers are begging college kids to come work for them so you are almost guaranteed a job. An easy job to get that pays well is nannying or babysitting, but if you can't find anyone that needs a nanny, work at a clothing store or be a lifeguard! Your wallet will thank me.
