This is it, ladies and gentlemen. We're just a week away from summer vacation, and if you're anything like me, you're a mix of emotions. Yes, you're tired of class and endless projects and papers, but you know as soon as you pack up your dorm room or apartment and head home (or as you stay in your college town and everyone leaves), you'll miss all your friends and all the fun things you'd do on any given day or night. But don't be too sad, because summer vacation can be a blast. Here are some ways to make sure you make the most of your vacation.
1. Take a road trip
Nothing quite says "summer" than riding around town with the windows down, blasting music with your friends. So get a crew together, throw a dart on a map, and go somewhere! Bonus points if it's somewhere you've never been. Double those bonus points if you sleep in your car.
2. Do something you never have before in your hometown
Does your city have a museum you've never been to? Or an attraction that "only tourists go to?" Take a day and spend it exploring your hometown. You never know what you might find!
3. Reconnect with an old friend
When was the last time you talked to someone you went to high school with? Think about it—you used to see them every day, and now you barely say two words to each other if you just so happen to run into them in the grocery store. Try and catch up with at least one friend over vacation. You'll be glad you did.
4. Spend extra time with family
This may come as a surprise, but your family actually misses you while you're away at college. Take every opportunity you can to spend time with them.
5. Go to a concert
Even though you'll spend an hour or so getting ready just to sweat through your clothes, summer concerts are the best, especially outdoor ones. Now if the perfect time for music festivals too! And honestly, it doesn't even matter if you know the band. You'll have fun anyway.
6. Spend at least one day on some kind of body of water
Whether it be a day at the lake or the pool or a trip to the beach, you need to cool off somehow!
No matter what you do, don't fall into the summer slump of missing your friends from college so much that you miss out on all the fun your hometown, friends, and family have to offer. Make the most of this much-needed break. It'll be over before you know it.
