As the end of the academic year draws to a close, many of us are contemplating how our summer will be spent. Some of us will study abroad, some will stay in an apartment and work near campus, but the majority of us will go back to our hometowns, living in our homes before we entered college in August.
Going home can be tough for many of us. We've been on our own for the past ten months, making decisions for ourselves ranging from when to eat to when we'll study and write that paper that's due tomorrow. When we're suddenly placed back under someone's supervision, we may feel constrained or tied down. We may feel disconnected from all our friends who live on the other side of the state. We may feel alone.
My advice to anyone who may feel this way is to keep busy. When you stay active, you don't think of the restrictions; you imagine the possibilities. While relaxing can be good for a hot minute, don't make a habit of sitting on the couch. Here your mind can drift to unhealthy thoughts and land you in a less than perfect place. Aim to be busy this summer. Makes experiences that you'll be able to tell friends when you get back on campus.
Try to get a job. The money will be nice to help out with upcoming academic expenses, and you'll have something to do. The money you save up can be used during the school year when the opportunity arises. Call up a best friend from high school that went to another college and ask them if you can get together. I'm sure the conversation will be easy to keep alive as you both will have some fond memories and stories to share. Visit the college friend that lives far away from you. Work out the logistics and pack up for a road trip. See their hometown and go to eat at their favorite local restaurant. Keep these bonds fresh so you can pick up right where you left off as soon as you get back on campus. Visit family. You haven't seen many of them in a while, and I know they'll be interested in hearing about the time you've been away at college. Volunteer! Helping others that may be less fortunate than you can put a smile on your face and be more helpful to you than you think you're helping them. Tutor at the library or donate time or items to a food pantry. Get active physically. Go to your local gym or YMCA and take a weekly class like water aerobics, cycling, or pilates. When boredom strikes, go for a walk. Get closer to nature and take a breather. Your mind will find serenity and your body will thank you too.
When you're back home, try to keep yourself from dwelling on the negatives. Take this time to plan for the fall semester and all the goals that you'd like to accomplish. Make the experience a positive one.
