College is the best time of our lives. Living with friends, meeting new people, learning what you're passionate about and creating memories you'll have forever. With a year full of excitement and surprises every day, coming back home over the summer isn't quite as anticipated as summers were in high school.
Especially when you feel like most of your best friends you met in college. For me, I made the most amazing friends I could ask for in my first year. Back at home, I have a tighter circle of friends. Of course, I love my high school friends, and I will cherish them forever, but they have busy schedules just like everyone else and aren't always available.
With less friends at home and with them working or traveling, I have more alone time over the summer. But having more alone time doesn't have to be the end of the world. I've found some ways to spend my time in a healthy way, and I'm here to share them with you all.
1. Work out
I've been constantly telling myself that I'd start working out as soon as I had time. Well, now's the time! With lots of downtime, you can finally get on that workout grind like you've been promising yourself you would. Working out can be going for a walk, taking a yoga class, or hitting the gym.
2. Don’t be afraid to go places alone
Learning how to have fun by yourself is actually freeing and empowering. You want to see that new movie? Go see it! Want to grab some coffee? Grab a book and read it at that coffee shop you've been wanting to try. It's ok to do things by yourself.
3. Spend time with family
Spending summers at home is a great time to spend quality time with your family. If you're like me and go to college out of state, I don't get to see my family that often during the school year. Appreciate them for the time you have with them now.
4. Read more!
Reading can sound like a chore when you have to do it for school. But reading can actually be fun when you get to choose your own books. I've been trying to read some books this summer that I've been wanting to for a while but never had the time over the school year.
5. Get a job
Getting a job is a good way to pass time and earn money. Working isn't the most fun, but you can earn some cash.
6. Visit your friends
If you miss your college friends too much, try to plan a short visit. Plan for a few days and take a bus or drive over to visit them. They can visit you too!
7. Start a project
With all this time on your hands, now is a great time to start a big project. This can be deep-cleaning your room, learning how to play an instrument or painting.
8. Plan for the future
Trying to figure out classes and your major can be stressful during the school year. Do it over the summer when you have a clear head and lots of time. Research classes and majors that you might like.
9. Take a summer class
Taking a summer class is a great way to get ahead on credits or knock out that requirement for graduation. I took a summer math class, and now I won't have to do it during the school year.
10. Join Odyssey!
Writing is a great way to keep your brain activated. It's also a fun way to reach an audience about your thoughts.
