1. Summer is hot.

While that’s true for most of the year, it’s absolutely true for summertime. Here in Waco, we’re lucky at least to be in Central Texas where most seasons are moderate. Every summer though, I make the requisite three-hour trek down to my family in Houston.

Sweat pours from every bodily surface, leaving a trail of droplets wherever you go. And worst of all: STICKY THIGHS. Sticking together, sticking to car seats, sticking to clothing––it’s one of the least comfortable experiences ever, yet it’s unavoidable during the summer.

2. Summer is lonely.

Over summer, maybe you’re able to meet up with old friends from high school or see college friends that live nearby. Unfortunately for me, my family moved after my freshman year. I thoroughly appreciate the extra time with my immediate family, but I can’t help missing my other “family” of friends from Waco.

3. Summer is busy.

As a kid, I eagerly anticipated the winding-down of the school year. Without the stress and time commitment of finals, pre-summer elementary school meant classroom movies and increased playground time. #Adulting––as far as I can tell––involves neither of these classic summertime joys.

The end of the standard school year means one of two things: work or (more) school. Many of my friends translate their passion and work ethic to camp counseling or working within their desired field, and I applaud their service and ambition (respectively). While these are more than worthwhile pursuits, the busyness of summer gradually undermines its former magic.

4. Summer is boring.

As a student at Baylor, I’m spoiled by seemingly endless on and off-campus activities. Between academics, friends, work, and clubs, there never seems to be sufficient time to attend Movie Mondays at the Hippodrome or see a concert at Common Grounds. During the school year, I’m frequently scrambling for extra time on weekends. I’ve even found myself waking up a little earlier to squeeze a stroll through the Farmer’s Market into my hectic schedule.

Summer, though, is a different story. Thanks to the busyness that continues from the spring semester into the summer, much of my time is occupied. Any “free time” I have, I spend relaxing, trying to refresh in anticipation of the upcoming fall semester. You know you’re bored when you grow tired of binge-watching TV shows. No matter where you go for summer break, there just never seems to be as much excitement as on campus. I definitely find myself looking forward to driving back to the Wack.