Whether you've been in college for three years or you have just finished your freshman year, I guarantee you have all considered staying at school for the summer. It's a tough decision to make because this past year was beyond memorable, how could anyone possibly leave, right?
Here are some of the factors to consider if you decide that you should stay at school:
1. FREEDOM! The best part about living on campus or away from home is that you don't have to deal with your parent's demands or supervision. You're all on your own honey and it feels awesome doesn't it?!
2. When there are no parents around to tell you what to do, you are free to take as many day-naps as you want with no interruptions.
3. Most likely campus is a ghost-town. Even if you're enrolled in summer semester classes, campus is not as lively or fun as it is during the regular school year. Grant it, since it is less crowded you'll have a better chance of getting to know new people but still don't count on much else going on.
4. Rent...unless you're very blessed and have a wonderful scholarship, grant, stipend, or generous allowance, you are going to be responsible for paying your rent. So that most likely means you will have to work a lot this summer...so I'd find a fun job!
5. With that being said, staying in your college-town for the summer does give you the chance to branch out and spend some time doing some networking. Consider getting a summer job or paid internship in your field of study, this could be very beneficial for you down the road especially if you need a positive recommendation or a job right out graduation.
6. The party scene is still fun, just a lot harder to find. Grant it, people party a lot more during the summer but not as much as you think. Most likely everyone is on different work and school schedules during the summer so trying to find time when everyone can get together can be difficult. But when it does happen...then party on you animals!
Here are some factors to consider if you decide that you should go back home:
1. Going back home for the summer isn't really that bad, it is all around cheaper...for you...You don't have to pay rent or scrape the change off the bottom of your car to buy Top-Ramen at the store. Overall, living at home with your parents will take away all the financial burdens for at least three months.
2. Yeah, your parents are going to be in your business, but this could be good for you. Instead of partying every single day of your summer, your dad might motivate you to help him with the yard work and possibly wake you up at 8 a.m. instead of noon. Your parents might annoy you or push you a little too much at first but either way, they're doing it out of love and it will probably hold you more accountable since you are transitioning into this awesome and independent adult.
3. Find a job in your hometown or near your hometown! That way if you graduate and decide you miss it all way too much you'll have something to come back to. This summer gives you the opportunity to find a job or internship in your field of study where you can begin networking and establish a good reputation in your community. That way when you graduate, if you decide to come back home and work, you'll have a job to fall back on or people who would love to help you. Either way, it is all about networking! ...(Since you're living at home for the summer, you can save all the money you make instead of spending it all on rent and groceries.)
4. Coming home for the summer means hanging out with all your best friends from high school. Even if you are all spread out during the school year, most of the time you all come back for a little bit to be with your families and catch up. Although I have heard the saying where you meet your best friend in college, I can guarantee that nothing beats hanging out with your friends from the very beginning. It's almost like you just catch up right where you left off like nothing has changed!
5. No more anxiety. Whether you get homesick, overwhelmed with school work, or struggle with finances, something about being at home is extra comforting and helps relieve you from all those gnarly stressors...at least temporarily.
6. You can cuddle with your pets whenever you want! I don't know about you but I love my pets with all my heart and I miss them every day while I am away at school.
7. Getting away from your college-town is a healthy break from your normal routine. Its a great chance to spend some quality time with your family and friends and who knows, maybe it will help you approach the new school year with a clear head and better and more positive mindset.