Four years ago, I was dreading the first day of school. I had a rough sophomore year of high school, and I was nervous about Junior year. But now, I want summer to end because I cannot wait to go back to school. Sophomore year of college went beyond my wildest dreams. I had made a compilation of all the Snapchat videos I had from the school year. Watching the video made me excited to make more memories.
Four years ago, I wanted to live in summer forever. But now, I don't mind homework, and the four seasons. Anything to be with my second family. What I don't realize now is that in five months from now, I will most likely post a throwback photo on Instagram from the summer months. When the weather was warmer, and the days were longer. There is only a month left of summer, and I realize that I should make the most of it before it's gone.
This message alone should not just apply to this month. Make the most of finals week when you're still with your friends, the end of winter break while your parents are still flipping pancakes for you, and the end of spring break whether you're on the beach or at home snuggling with your dog.
To make the most of what is now the beginning of the end, make a last-minute bucket list. Write down all the things you still have yet to do. Request a few days off from work to pursue these last-minute experiences. Go to the pool, lake, or ocean, and just float for a while as you reflect on your summer, and mentally prepare for what is next. Eat from your favorite restaurants whether you go with someone, or just get take-out, because you'll be eating from the dining hall again before you know it.
Offer to run errands for your parents, go to the super-market across town during your friend's shift. While your parents have an extra hand, you get to sneak in another chance to see your hometown friends.
Go back-to-school shopping with your mom, or your best friends. Because those never get old no matter how old you are. When it's raining outside, go see a movie that's been sparking your interest. Instead of thinking about it, you should go do it. Even if the movie was terrible, it sure beats staying at home doing nothing. Upgrade your decor, whether you want to change the theme for your new dorm room, or make your room more inviting when you come home for a weekend.
Finally, to help contain your excitement for the school-year, go to your local library or cafe. Find somewhere comfy to sit, and make two more bucket lists. One list for things you want to do for the upcoming semester. I'd say year, but you gotta give yourself something to do over winter break. The second list should be things you want to do within the very first week of school. For that list they should include little things like catching up with certain friends, and professors. Make the most of everything you do.
