This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at San Diego chapter.
1. Get Healthy
It’s no secret that college students aren’t the most healthy. After all, we survive on dining hall food and Easy Mac and, often times, the only exercise we get is trekking from one side of campus to the other. That’s why it’s a good idea to make some little changes to improve your health whether it be to shed a few pounds or simply feel better. Try finding exercises that don’t feel like exercise such as Zumba classes, walking the dog, or hiking with friends. Also, try to make a conscious effort to eat healthier by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet and staying away from the Easy Mac.
2. Get a Job
This is pretty much a given, especially for older college students. However, if you’re debating whether or not to start sending out a few applications, absolutely do it. It’s understandable that some students don’t want lose time to a job when they could be spending time with their friends. Realistically, most of your friends will either be working themselves or not home at all. Look at a job as an opportunity to make some new friends and also some extra money. You’ll be grateful for that extra spending money at the beginning of next semester.
3. Spend Time with Your Friends From Home
With that being said, if you are lucky enough to have friends that are home from college, make them a priority. If both of you are working, spend time with them on the weekends. This shows them just how grateful you are for their friendship, something that will be very meaningful when you are separated again once the fall comes around.
4. Volunteer
There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the community over the summer. Not only will you feel great about helping those around you, but volunteering can be fun. Take up a role as a camp counselor or do a fun run that raises money for a good cause.
5. Break One of Your Bad Habits
They say it takes 21 days to make a new habit so the extra time you have over the summer is a great way to get rid of a bad habit. If you’re especially prone to the “college lifestyle,” some good starting points are doing your laundry every day, making your bed every morning, or washing your dishes as soon as you’re done with them.
6. Do Something Out of Your Comfort Zone
The idea of a routine is very comforting for us, but summer creates a lot of opportunities to do things we otherwise wouldn’t. The most spontaneous decisions are often the ones you remember the most. Whatever you’ve considered doing but were to afraid to, grab a friend and just do it. Take that crazy exercise class or go on that road trip. I promise you won’t regret it.
7. Make a Summer Bucket List
Make a list of everything you want to do this summer and stick to it. If you’re bored one day, you can pull it out and plan a new adventure. It’s also a great reminder of what you want to accomplish in the few months of freedom you have. There is nothing more satisfying than checking something of the list.