August already? Summer is basically over (and we still can’t decide if it went by quickly or slowly). As the imminence of schoolwork stares us in the face, we cling on to our sun dresses and pray for just a little more time to lay on a beach or explore NYC.
You’ve seen other people’s thrilling adventures via social media, and if you’re like me, you’ve promised yourself multiple times that you’re going to “do that soon,” and yet, you haven’t. We’ve all been thinking about that perfect end-of-summer Instagram post, and now is the time to make it happen!
You’ve got a few weeks to check these mega-basic (yet mega-rewarding) moments off your list… go!
Be a tourist
Not everyone at Bucknell lives close to a city, but if you can make the trek to wherever is nearest to you, definitely do so. We’ve all been to the chic restaurants and favorite local places because that’s what the hip urban youth do, right? I’m suggesting something different – something so obvious that it’s often overlooked. Go see what your city is really famous for. Yes, I do mean waiting in line for the top of the Empire State Building or the Liberty Bell. I mean, we do it for the Eiffel Tower, so you may as well get the local version. Plus, it’s something you probably haven’t done in a few years, and you’ll miss those monuments when you’re surrounded by some lovely Lewisburg farmland.
Make life a beach
We’ve all (hopefully) accepted that the Susquehanna is no replacement for a nice lake or ocean, so by all means, enjoy the sun and sand while it lasts. This is probably the easiest of all these suggestions, you really don’t have a reason not to lay around near some water. Break out your favorite super Saturday sunglasses (and maybe a selfie stick if you’re feeling brave) and show the world how up to date you are on bikini trends.
Spoil yourself
This can be hard because luxurious spa days and extravagant shopping trips are a little pricey. Which is why you probably don’t do them every day (and if you do, please bring me next time). But, one last day for yourself this summer couldn’t hurt. Whether that means finally buying that treasured Kate Spade purse you’ve ogled over or getting a full-blown mani-pedi (don’t forget the paraffin wax), go for it. Don’t mess up your nails while you’re #hashtagging though!
Take a hike
No seriously, not in a figurative way… I mean actual mountains. Exploring the beautiful natural landscape is something we can definitely do at Bucknell, but no one has the time for it when school is in session. So, pack your picnic lunch, grabs some friends (and some bug spray) and embrace your inner outdoorsy self.
Get baking
You’re probably deep into taking your parents’ cooking for granted and/or enjoying some nice restaurants that aren’t the Bison or Caf. As we all know, “cooking” in college isn’t quite the same as at home, so you better take advantage of that clean and stocked kitchen while it lasts. Pinterest is basically begging you to make some colorful cupcakes, no filter needed. Plus, you can stuff your face behind the scenes, which is clearly the real end goal here.
Read up
What you choose depends on your preference, obviously. But whether it’s Fifty Shades of Grey or Pride and Prejudice, make it something that you want to read truly for the enjoyment of it – not to study, and not just to look like the most educated girl at the beach. Is that just me? So curl up in a cozy spot and indulge in some literature… or a trashy (yet satisfying) “romance” novel.
Regardless of how you spend your last few weeks, and whether you decide to keep it to yourself or share it with the rest of the Internet, make sure it’s something that you know you’ll miss in the gross depths of winter. You have plenty of time (forever) to catch up on Netflix and text all the friends you miss. Don’t worry – all the excellence that Bucknell brings is oh so close – but that’s no reason to finish your summer doing anything other than enjoying yourself. However, it can’t hurt to have a little ~instaration~ sometimes. Filter away, ladies!