Coming home from college for the summer was relaxing, therapeutic, and much needed -- for about three days that is. I had been told by my upperclassmen friends that being home for the summer can be a strenuous task in itself, but I could not understand why until I experienced it for myself. Now don’t get me wrong, I love my family and my hometown, but, the drastic change in lifestyle can be quite overwhelming. With no homework due, tests to study for, or meetings to attend, life can find a way of feeling pretty empty. I mean, when was the last time you had time to just… waste? Below is my shortlist of ways to cope with being home and unoccupied for the long summer months.

1. Netflix

This was definitely my first go to as soon as I unpacked my (overflowing and extremely heavy) duffel bags. I had been getting tempting notifications from Netflix all semester long, informing me that my favorite shows had released new, binge-worthy seasons, seasons which I had absolutely zero time to watch. Needless to say, I am now up to date on all of my shows and feeling quite accomplished.

2. Working Out

Exercising is so beneficial to your mental and physical health, why not dedicate some of your time to it? Whether it’s joining a gym or taking some laps around your neighborhood, any form of working out can do wonders for you!

3. Reading

Reading has always been one of those things that I enjoy doing, but never really have the time to do. Luckily, three months of nothing but free time are here! I currently have a stack of novels on my dresser that I’ve been wanting to read all semester. Other popular alternatives are audiobooks and podcasts, allowing you to get the benefits of reading without needing to dedicate your full attention!

4. Visiting friends and family

When you left for college, there was definitely a list of tough goodbyes you had to make. Summer is the perfect time to catch up with friends and family that you’ve been away from! This is especially important if your list includes older relatives, a visit from you will mean more than you know to them!

5. Ice Cream

Unless your hometown is on the complete opposite side of the world, it is HOT right now. Gather some of your pals and treat yourselves to a delicious ice cream cone! I’m from a relatively small city, but just about everywhere sells some form of frozen sugary goodness for you to enjoy.

6.Taking Up a New Hobby

I often dreamed I had enough time to do this during the school year. If you’ve thought about wanting to try something, summer is the perfect time to do it! There are literally so many hobbies just waiting to be explored! Personally, my goal is to reteach myself the piano, improve my photography skills, and get more experience with acrylic paint.

7. Redecorating

For me, this one honestly wasn’t even optional. Between all of the stuff I’ve accumulated since college AND everything I owned previously, my room was a total wreck. While relatively stressful, it can be fun to redesign your room, the possibilities are endless and it can really freshen up your environment!

8. Have a Photoshoot

Grab a group of your friends, dress up cute, do each other’s makeup, and take some photos! Whether you explore your hometown for new scenery or go to the Hobby Lobby floral section, a photoshoot is a cheap, easy way to bring excitement to your summer and likes to your Instagram!