As I am writing this, I’m a little more than two weeks away from saying goodbye to the University of Connecticut, and there truly aren’t enough words to describe how excited I feel. After four long years of studying, labs, and clinicals, this summer is my time to celebrate everything I’ve accomplished. With my (soon-to-be) newfound freedom, I want to make the most of this break before I start working full-time like an actual adult — yikes! Here’s what’s on my post-grad summer bucket list.
Spend More Time Outdoors
This summer, I really want to slow down and appreciate nature in a way I haven’t been able to during the school year. Yes, I’ve done the usual beach and pool days, but I want to go beyond that. I’m hoping to take more walks, go on hikes, and explore different places around New England. Summer is when everything feels the most alive and beautiful, and I don’t want to let that pass me by again. Even something as simple as being outside more often feels like a reset after such a busy few years.
Take More Day Trips
Most summers, my family and I don’t travel much because of busy work schedules — and because I usually pick up more hours at my part-time job. This year, I want to change that. I plan to explore more of Connecticut, especially places I’ve never been before. There are so many hidden gems here, and I’ve barely scratched the surface.
I also want to branch out and visit other parts of New England. I’ve seen so many beautiful photos of nearby states in the summer, and I want to experience them for myself instead of just seeing them online. Spontaneous trips feel like the perfect way to make the most of this time.
Attend a Concert
Every year, I tell myself I’m going to see my favorite artists when they come nearby, and somehow it never happens. Not this summer. This is the summer of making memories, so I plan to go to as many concerts as I can. So many artists I love are touring, and I’d be silly not to take advantage of it. A few on my radar include Pitbull, Akon and Ne-Yo, Usher, and Chris Brown, along with anyone else I can catch. I’m already excited just thinking about it — my bank account, not so much.
Grad Parties
Since it’s graduation season, it only feels right to go to as many grad parties as I can. So many of my friends from home and school are celebrating this huge milestone, and I want to be there to support them and share in the excitement. It’s such a special time, and being surrounded by people who have worked just as hard makes it even more meaningful. Plus, I won’t lie, the free food and desserts are definitely a bonus. I loved going to grad parties after high school, and I’m expecting these to be just as fun, if not better.
Read
Lately, I’ve been rediscovering my love for reading, and I want to keep that going throughout the summer. With more free time, I’m hoping to be more intentional about setting aside time to read and actually enjoy it, rather than rushing through it. I also want to continue my book-thrifting adventures, which has quickly become one of my favorite hobbies. Finding new books in unexpected places makes reading even more exciting, and I’m looking forward to building a small collection along the way.
Overall, this summer feels like a well-earned pause before everything changes. A chance to celebrate, reset, and do the things I’ve been putting off since starting college. I don’t expect this plan to be perfect, but I do want to live in the moment and make the most of this time. Before the routines and responsibilities of full-time work begin, this is my moment to just enjoy where I am, and that is more than enough.