Now that the semester is over, there’s a lull in the stress intake. By finals week, you’re praying for a nice break from the overload of information classes throw at you all at once. However, after a while, the summer break gets boring as you constantly refresh your Facebook feed and fill your time with meaningless Netflix shows. Of course, summer jobs are always helpful, but sometimes that’s not even enough. There are certain things you can do to exercise the part of your brain that was filled to the brim with countless British poets and how to write a decent business memo. Here are a couple of ideas, but list could go on forever.
1. Cooking
As an important real world skill, cooking is fun and beneficial. By setting aside time to teach yourself one of two different recipes weekly, this skill builds up your cooking resume. With recipes on Pinterest or even in a good-old-fashioned cookbook, there are plenty of wonderful new meals to try. Especially with the ingredients already found in your kitchen. By the end of the summer, you’ll have a whole new skill that can continue to grow and, with time, will only get better. I’ve already learned how to make Buffalo Chicken Dip, Peanut Butter Icing for Cupcakes and a Caprese panini!
2. Crafting
As a sister of Alpha Xi Delta, I have found my crafting skills to be sub-par compared to my other artistically inclined sisters. So, what better way to improve my crafting skills than when I have ample time in the summer! One Michael’s trip and DIY tricks found on Pinterest and Youtube are all you need to create a beautiful masterpiece for your dorm next semester. Along with a great craft, you’ll be able to sharpen those crafting skills for bigger and better crafts in the future. And, if you’re feeling brave enough, DIY projects can be the perfect Christmas gifts. Summer is the perfect time to get started on the crafts you’ve wanted to try, but just haven’t had the time to do.
3. Reading
Okay, before you roll your eyes, let me explain. As an English major, I am passionate about reading, but I’m not asking you to read something that’s going to bore you and take you the whole summer to read. I suggest reading a book that enlightens you; something about a person you admire, an historical event, a religious belief different than your own or even financial stability. This summer, read to understand a topic you didn’t before—you might be surprised how it interconnects with the courses you take next semester. Also, if you enjoy reading like I do, find a few fiction novels too. There’s plenty to choose from at a nearby bookstore, Amazon, or even—your local library.
4. Traveling
Summer means the perfect weather to travel somewhere you haven’t gone before. It doesn’t have to be far, although if you have the opportunity: take it! An old antique store you’ve been dying to see, a local flea market, the beach, or a hiking trail you’ve always wanted to try; all of these are great places to travel in your free time. Pick a day you have nothing to do, grab some friends, pack a picnic lunch and promise yourself you won’t go home until sunset. Spend the day searching and exploring, you’ll never know what exciting activities are in your neighborhood. Staying local can also mean less expenses, which is perfect for any frugal college student.
Take advantage of the summer and use the break to keep your brain active and learning new things. There’s so much to do besides sit inside and watch Netflix all day. Can you think of any other ways to keep your mind turning during summer break?
