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5 Ways to Prep for Your First Summer Back Home

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at American chapter.

With a mere week of school left, your summer adventures will start before you know it. Some of you may have the internship of your dreams. Maybe you’re studying abroad or taking classes on campus. Or you’re going back home to home-cooked meals and high school friends. Just because you’ll be home doesn’t mean you can’t have the summer of a lifetime. Here are five ways to make the most of your summer at home.

1. Check out local festivals and concerts.

There are more festivals and concerts than you can ever imagine in the summer. Many of them are free or require a minimal admission fee. Check out local events by talking with friends or searching the web. Do your research early on so you don’t miss any good ones!

2. Make Fourth of July memories.

Let’s be real. There are few holidays more wonderful and obnoxious as our national holiday celebrating the best America has to offer– barbecue, sunshine, fireworks, family, and friends. Make your plans early on to make this Fourth the best yet. Think of traditions you can start with friends, break out some new lawn games, or host your own Fourth of July party. Disposable cameras and USA merchandise are suggested. Better yet, make a road trip of it and visit a national park around your home state.

3. Redecorate.

If you’re parents haven’t completely moved you out of your room already, take this summer to reorganize, redecorate, and reduce the things in your room. Get a good night sleep, invite over your best friend, and get sorting. Your room will feel so much better and it’ll make both you and your parents lives easier. Ask for some paint and get creative with redecorating.

4. Volunteer around your neighborhood.

Let’s be honest. As much as we all may want to volunteer while at school, the stress and unknown schedule of college life is not very accommodating. Take advantage of your time at home to find a volunteer opportunity that means something to you.  Check listings for your area here. Even a few hours every week makes a huge difference in your life and all those you get to interact with.

5. Green your life.

Work with your family to “green” your household. Find creative, fun, and effective ways to reduce your waste. If you have younger siblings, work with them to build good recycling and reduction habits. See if there is a local community garden you can work with! Or make your own garden at home. Visit your farmers market and chat with vendors for information. Impress your family with your new cooking skills and fresh ingredients.

 

Photo Credits:

http://wallisty.com/beach-people-photo-photography-summer-water-favim-co…

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m15cm1v2ZY1qi9p54o1_500.jpg

http://tinkerliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/4th-of-july-contest.jpg

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m98f19zw1P1rricb3o1_500.jpg

http://filmadelphia.org/wp-content/uploads/Volunteer-Hands-Large.jpg

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lkp1gf91aQ1qzss4xo1_400.jpg