As we wrap up the semester with only a month or so left, it's hard not to acknowledge that our world here as we know it must come to a temporary end. The transition from college to living back at home for the summer isn't easy, as I've seen in the past with some of my older friends. Now it's my turn. There's no way to pretend that life in at home is quite the same as it is in college, but such is life. Unless you have the financial means to do so, going home for the summer is the only viable option, so make it great! Here are a few reminders for when it's finally time to pack up and head back home.
1. Appreciate it for what it is.
No, living at home is not like living at college. In fact, the transition may be annoying at first. There is less freedom and people don't come bursting through your door at all hours of the day just to say hello. Perhaps worst of all, there aren't cute boys to creep on in the dining hall with your friends. But your home was there for you in your most unattractive years, your bitchy high school years and the forever before then. Remember to love it for what it is and for what it has been to you.
2. Make amazing memories with your friends like the old days.
During college, a lot of things can change. A lot of people can change, and with that it's only natural that some connections will fade as you proceed to lead separate lives. This is normal and completely OK. But with so many months to spend together, you want to make the best of your time together. They're not your college friends, but that doesn't make them any less wonderful. Laugh about stupid high school things and hit up Taco Bell late at night like you used to.
4. Work!
As much as you'll want to sleep in every day and just go to the beach, remember how important it is to work. It's important mostly so you have the freedom to spend it on food and going out (and alcohol, let's be real here) without worrying too much about your balance. If you aren't able to work during the semester this is especially key. I write this one mostly for myself because I know that there will be many a day where I just want to stay in bed forever when the clock reads "7:01."
5. Try not to spend all your time wishing you were back at school.
Wishing you were already back at school will not make the time pass any faster. Don't wish all those months away just to get back to another place; you'll never get them back! Give yourself a great summer and let yourself enjoy everything that your hometown has to offer. You made do with it for 18 years, a few more months is nothing.
6. Don't forget about your passions.
You're ideally going to school for something you like or love to do, so don't let that slip away into the summer breeze while you're not at school. Keep reading, keep creating, maintain that passion so you don't come back forgetting all you've learned last year. Keep doing it because you want to!
