I've been abroad for a short period of time these past three summers: England, Canada and Italy. This is my first summer since high-school not spent traveling and working instead. I work at my campus library. It's part-time, so the most I can work is 20 hours a week, which I do. I only work Thursday-Sunday and have a lot of time on my hands.

I was disappointed at first to not have any big trips planned for my last summer in college before graduating in December. At the very least, I wanted a week or longer beach trip.

Nevertheless, this has been the most productive and relaxed I have ever felt. It's the slowest my life has moved in a while and it feels very nice. I'm focusing more on the little things in my life. I feel so free and at peace.

I spend my days working in the library making to-do lists, cleaning out my emails and overall organizing my life. The days I'm off, I'm sleeping in, doing chores and just relaxing.

I didn't realize how much I needed this.

I still do get jealous seeing my friends on their summer vacations abroad, at the beach, or simply chilling at home with their family since I'm still in Columbia with all of my roommates gone.

But, I'm loving it. I do feel pressured to be out doing summer activities like hiking, swimming and enjoying the outdoors. All things I love to do, but I don't need to be doing "summer" hobbies to be appreciating my summer free time.

Sometimes, you need a break from continuously going throughout the school year that lasts more than a day. It's okay to spend your summer break unwinding by doing absolutely nothing.

There are so many small things you can do in the town you're in, working and having minimum days off. Go to your local pool or swimming location, go out to eat with friends who stayed behind as well, host movie nights at your empty place, or have a game night.

And if you're by yourself, soak in having alone time and embrace the quiet. It's not going to last long nor will it happen again, likely. It's okay to be lazy and have a day of not moving on the couch with snacks and Netflix on the TV. Pamper yourself or use the time to cook yourself a pleasant home cooked meal.

You don't have to be "living your best life" during summer vacation. It's your own time to do as you wish. There is no wrong or right way to spend your free time during summer.

I feel so content. I've realized how much I love not living out of a suitcase. I'm still adjusting to not constantly being on the go or planning where or who I should visit next, but it's very peaceful.

Lastly, having Monday-Wednesday off from work allows me to visit home and family for a few days or have a short trip with friends. I'm still available for traveling and summer activities.

And friends who are working with no free time during the summer, that is absolutely okay. You're making use of having the opportunity to work hard and earn money. As a college student, it is harder to work during the semesters with classes and outside interests. Make yourself a safety net (of money) and be proud of being willing to work hard for yourself.

Occupy summer vacation your way.