At this point in the school year, I’m sure that preparing for next year is probably the last thing on everyone’s mind. Between trying to pack, studying for finals and being sick (great timing, I know), my brain feels like it is completely fried. This is why I figured that I don’t want to start next year feeling the same way that I do now (physically and mentally drained, unmotivated and ready to go home), and thought about what I could do this summer to recharge myself to prepare for the next school year.
1. Rest
This is probably a given because I’m sure that about 95 percent of college students (including me) are going to literally face-plant into their bed as soon as their last exam ends. When school ends and summer officially begins, give yourself a break from all the stress and drama. Do nothing for a whole week. I’m sure no one will blame you (especially if you ended up with that 4.0 you’ve been aiming for). This is your time to relax and start getting more than four hours of sleep per night.
2. But don’t that rest stop you from taking care of yourself.
Although it may be tempting to try to catch up on the collective 300 hours of sleep that you missed out on throughout the school year, it’s important not to waste your summer by just lying around all the time, because that can be harmful to both your mind and body. While you’re at home, take advantage of the perks like home cooked meals and use your newly-acquired free time to work out or stretch your mind. Just remember that mental health is just as important as physical health, and if you feel like you need help, summer is a good time to seek it.
3. Make money.
As a second semester freshman, I’ve never felt as poor as I do right now. Take advantage of the three to four month break by getting a job or internship that will guarantee that you won’t be spending the next semester being that person always asking people for swipes. Having spending money in college makes the experience so much better, and it gives you one less thing to worry about as you embark on your next chapter.
4. Try something new.
This may sound cliche, but as much as college is regarded as a place for new experiences, I really think that summer is just as good, if not better. Doing new things is a lot more fun when you don’t have three tests coming up and an unfinished final paper due in two days. So go ahead, photograph things you love, start painting, try aromatherapy, write that novel, go to a rave – it’ll be much more relaxing when you don’t have the world weighing you down. Bring these new experiences back next year.
5. Surround yourself with people you love (and meet some new people too).
I know it may be tempting to shut out the world after enduring the stress that is school, but summer really is a great time to surround yourself with the people that mean the most to you. Plan a trip to the beach, go to the movies, have a slumber party – do anything. I find that I feel the most like myself when I’m around these people, and not only will seeing these people make you feel great, but you’ll have some awesome memories to share when you get back to school. Don’t be afraid to make new connections, too. Who knows, it could be a potential road trip in the making.
Whether you’re working, partying all summer or have no plans on the horizon, make sure you’re getting the most out of it without overexerting yourself. Save that energy for the next semester. You’ll probably need it. Don’t let anything or anyone stress you.