The summer before your freshman year of college is a roller coaster, but here are some dos and don’ts before you leave for school.
Do something fun.
This is one of your last summer vacations before you have to get internships, do clinical, get a real job, so do something cool. Go on a road trip, a vacation -- something. Also, be sure to do this because no one likes that person who says “I slept” when you do the stupid ice breaker and get asked to say something fun you did over the summer.
Befriend people from your high school that are going to the same college as you.
It’s always great to know at least one person before you go to school. It’s fine if you weren’t friends in high school, it doesn’t matter anymore. It’s good to have someone to grab lunch with. It’s also good to have a friend whose room you can hide in if you don’t get along with your roommate for some reason (everything will be fine when you get there).
Spend time with your family.
You will miss them when you leave. And, yes, you’ve spent the past 18 years with your family, but spend some time with them over the summer. You only seem them every so often once you’re in college.
Earn some money.
Believe me, the broke college student life is no joke. It’s a tragic reality, and I’m sure you’ll understand it sooner or later. It can be hard to earn money when you’re freshmen in college, so save some cash this summer so you’re not that person mooching alcohol, food -- anything and everything.
Spend time with friends.
It’s sad knowing you’re not going to see your best friends every day like you do right now, so make sure to hang out with them this summer. Time management is key; make time for people, don’t blow them off.
Do your college purchases early on.
Places run out of stuff. Also, there’s no such thing as getting it all over with. You’re going to spend hours, days, maybe even weeks inside of Target and Bed Bath & Beyond. Don’t try to buy it all last minute; you’ll be more stressed. Also, don’t make it a bad time. Try to make it fun. Not too sure how to do that, but don’t be annoyed when your mom tries to help you pick out the perfect shower caddy and desk lamp.
Get excited, but don’t wish away the days.
Time only goes by faster as the years pass, so don’t hope it goes by fast. Time is truly precious. Savor the time you have with those you love. Savor your free time while you have it, but don’t spend your time doing nothing or wish your time away.
