It's actually over. Against all odds, you survived the semester! Who would have thought this day would come? Think of all the spare time you'll have now that you're not always stressed about working on homework, group projects, papers, and a million other school chores! But what are you supposed to do with all your newfound spare time? Even if you do have a full-time job lined up, you're still going to find your days are less jam-packed than they were during the semester. Here are eight productive and (borderline) fun things to add to your summer routine!

1. Cook up some new recipes

Who doesn't love food? Find a fun summer dish to prepare for your friends, your family, or just for yourself! You don't have to be an experienced cook to create something delicious! You might discover something great outside your usual taste palette- you don't know until you try!

2. Give hiking a try

It's pretty easy to find a day on the weekend to get in the car and hike to a scenic location in your area. Not only will it give you a reason to get outside and experience the beauty of nature, but it will also help clear your mind of worries and help you focus on the here and now. Not to mention the benefits that the exercise will have on your physical fitness!

3. Workout in the sun

You know you've been meaning to fit some more workout time into your busy schedule. It's far too easy to dread hitting the gym- especially when the sun is shining and the outdoors are calling your name! It's way more fun to find a tennis partner, a running buddy, or a group of friends who want to spend the day at the beach exercising and relaxing. Make your quest for improving your health something fun and social to keep yourself motivated. Just don't forget your sunscreen!

4. Read, read, read!

Reading is not only a fun and relaxing hobby, but it's one that can reduce your stress, improve your vocabulary, and keep your mind young and healthy! If you're not someone who naturally enjoys cracking open a book, try to find a topic that you really enjoy and start out reading just five minutes a day. You might find you're a bookworm at heart!

5. Deep clean your entire apartment

Or family house, or wherever you call home during these next few months. If you're like me, you've been putting off these chores all semester, and your living space could use some dusting and vacuuming. Even you've been away from your room at home all year, it might not be a bad idea to give your space a once-over. It doesn't have to take hours, and you'll feel accomplished once you're done.

6. Study a new language

With no other studies occupying your time, why not practice a new language you find interesting? Maybe you've always wanted to visit France, and want to survive without your English once you're there. Practicing the language is the first successful step in planning your future international vacation!

7. Practice a new instrument

Beyond just improving your artistic abilities, your newfound talent could bring you closer to people who share the same interests! It might be time to take your high school instrument out of retirement!

8. Volunteer in your community

As little as an hour of your time can make a huge impact on the less-fortunate in your community. You can help people out and feel great about your positive impact on others! What do you have to lose?

No matter what your plans are for this summer, try to incorporate some fun new pastimes into your schedule to make the most out of your time away from school! You've earned it! Go make some amazing summer memories to talk about next semester!