After a long semester full of panicking, stress, and striving to do your best, summer has finally arrived. The semester that seemed like it would never end finally has. There are lists upon lists out there about what to do over summer vacation, but here are a few ideas that focus more on personal growth and happiness.

1. Choose an article of clothing to wear that is out of your comfort zone.

It could be trying out a trend you never have before, like a high-waisted bottom to a bathing suit or a crop top. By wearing something different, you might realize you made a great addition to your style.

2. Take yourself on a date.

Whether you decide to drive to the beach or catch a movie, do it by yourself. This can be a great way to clear your head and give yourself a little TLC.

3. Make a feel-good summer playlist.

4. Try out a new recipe.

Put those awesome Facebook cooking videos to use and invite some friends over.

5. Take extra care of yourself.

During time at college, I think we understand all too well the beauty of using makeup wipes and then going to bed. Since you have extra time at home, indulge in a bath scrub you love and wash your face morning and night.

6. Spend time with your high school friends...

It's easy to lose touch once everyone heads their separate ways. Take these few months off to reconnect.

7. ...and try to meet some new ones!

If the opportunity presents itself, engage in conversations. Get to know people.

8. Get a haircut.

There is no better feeling than leaving the salon with a fresh cut. It doesn't have to be anything drastic (unless you want to go that route), but a couple noticeable inches off can give you a fresh look and make you feel like a thousand bucks.

9. Get a good night's sleep.

You're not required to stay up until 3 A.M. to finish that paper anymore. Get your body back into the swing of things and catch up on some zzz's.

10. Sweat it out.

Go for a jog around the neighborhood. Sign up for Zumba classes with your friends at the local gym. Whichever way you like to exercise, doing so will not only decrease health risks, but you'll feel happier too (thanks, endorphins!)

11. Make to-do lists for your days at home.

Now that we're home for summer vacation, days tend to blend into each other, and it can be hard to keep track of what you need to accomplish on which day. I personally use an electronic sticky note on my computer, and it works wonders.