Everyone knows that summers in college are far different than the old summers of high school. You aren't playing baseball or softball anymore, and your friends seem to all be off somewhere else. You're basically beside yourself for the next three months. I've narrowed down the top five pros and cons of coming back home for the summer while you're in college. Enjoy.
Pro #1 Making money!
While living at home, your only obligation is to get a summer job, and rake in some dough. The best part about doing that is almost everything you make will be a profit. You aren't paying rent, buying groceries, or going out every night. This is a perfect time to save up some money for the upcoming school year. Sidebar— “Ride Wit Me" by Nelly is still a prime summer jam.
Con #1 Chores.
That's right, chores. If you're lucky enough to sit at home all summer and not have to mow the lawn, wash the cars, take out the trash, etc., then count your blessings. Most college students home for summer have the burden of doing household chores. But hey, it's better than paying rent, right?
Pro #2 Time for yourself.
While you're at home alone this summer, it is a perfect opportunity to have some time to yourself. You could take up a hobby, hit the gym, or do anything your little heart desires. It's a great time to work on yourself without the stress of class and homework weighing on you 24/7.
Con #2 Loneliness.
Although time alone by yourself can be nice and productive, it will still get old. There won't be any of your college friends around, no mug nights, no frat parties, and basically no promise of a social life. Hang tough though, August will be here faster than you think.
Pro #3 No class.
This is probably the single greatest thing about summer. No 8 a.m. classes, no late night group projects, and no finals. It really can't get much better than that. Now instead of studying for tests and quizzes, you can get outside and literally do anything else. Now, that's a pick-me-up.
Con #3 Summer jobs.
Even though class is out, it doesn't mean complete freedom. The key to having an enjoyable summer is finding a job you “somewhat" enjoy. But hey, even if you dread your summer job, you're still putting money in the bank and that's always a plus.
Pro #4 Summer fun.
Not only is the weather on “fleek" (as the cool kids would say), it is also time to spend outside. From breaking out the jet skis, to getting a solid tan, to hitting up an outside concert, the season of summer in general is tough to beat. Now I know this pro doesn't have much to do with being home for the summer, but hey, it's still a positive nonetheless.
Con #4 College friends are MIA.
This is probably the worst part about going home for the summer. This is especially true if you're a part of the Greek community, because they are basically your school year family. Luckily social media keeps us all connected, and the occasional visits help, but nothing beats hanging with your friends all school year.
Pro #5 The reunion.
There's really not a better feeling than coming back on campus in August. You get to catch up with everyone and the vibes are all super positive. The long three months away from campus are all worth it once August comes around. Good things come to those who wait, just be patient.
Con #5 The wait.
Although the reuniting is pure bliss, the wait until the start of the school year can be brutal. Those three long months are no picnic, and the visions of the upcoming school year can cause your anticipation to go through the roof. Be sure to pack your summer with things to keep you busy until the almighty start of the school year.
In all, being home for the summer can be a glass half full or a glass half empty type of experience. It's ultimately up to you. The reality is that these three months fly faster than you will realize and soon enough you'll be moving back to the greatest place on earth: College.
