Congratulations! You graduated! Take a deep breath and smile, you accomplished a great feat. The summer after graduation is the beginning of many new adventures and challenges. This is a time to relax and prepare for the transition of college that is ahead of you.

Rest

Take some time to relax and collect yourself before you worry about the future. Do something you enjoy by yourself that isn't school related. Read a book or go on a hike. Watch Netflix but, don't just waste your summer alone in your room. Check out a coffee shop and just sit. Recuperate and refresh your spirit and mind. Think about what is to come and reflect over your accomplishments. Think about what you want most out of your time at college. Try writing your hopes for the future in a journal so that you can look at them while you are in school.

Explore with Friends

Go on a summer adventure with some close friends. Explore interesting shops downtown or a bike trail through the woods. Do something new and discover new places. One great way to explore is via a road trip. Be sure to have plenty of snacks and music galore. When I graduated, two of my close friends and I went to Chicago for a couple of days - it was a fun experience outside of our normal lives.

Spend time with your Family

Before you leave home for college, spend some time with each member or your family. You may be surprised by how much fun you can have with them. They may be crazy and loud, but the members of my family are the most important people in my life. When my first year away from home began, I realized I missed spending time with my siblings and parents. Often the people you look forward to leaving are the ones you miss the most - go figure. Treasure your family and invest in your relationships with your loved ones. Thank your parents for standing by you and supporting you through childhood and school. Visit your grandparents. Be sure to let those around you know how much you care about them.

Make Money

Work at a job, even if it is minimum wage, and SAVE what you earn. Once the semester begins and you are in the midst of a full course load, it becomes more and more difficult to earn money. Save up the money so that you have something to fall back on for an emergency. Save it for textbooks and class fees. Having a social life at school will cost money. Movie nights, fast food and fro-yo runs all will add up as your wallet shrinks. Oh! And I can't forget to mention the amount of money you will end up spending on caffeine.

Prepare Mentally & Physically

Along with resting, exploring with friends, spending time with family, and earning money, don't forget about your health. Prepare yourself physically and get the sleep and exercise your body needs. Prepare your mind by reading books and writing. Read while you are relaxing at the beach or at the coffee shop. Refresh your essay writing skills...I know you just finished high school and essays are the furthest thing from your brain, but set yourself up for success by practicing during the summer break.