The first year of college was interesting, to say the least. It was a year that consisted of huge adjustments, wonderful memories, and friendships that will last forever. It was the first year of independence, and even though you had a blast, you might be feeling flat out exhausted. This is when the summer after your freshman year comes in handy.

It might feel weird coming back, having your parents wake you up in the morning or ask you where you are going as you walk out the front door. And after having all of these independent obligations, schoolwork and meetings, you might feel bored with a life of not having anything to do.

But, there’s a season for everything. Just as college bears good fruit, the summer can too.

Without further ado, here are ten things you can do to make the summer after your freshman year the best it can be.

1. Plan a roadtrip

After meeting all of your amazing friends, it is only necessary for you to drive up to see their stomping grounds. Or, you can even drive and enjoy a concert together. Visiting your friends in the summer will keep you connected and improve both of your summers.

2. Enjoy your pets

One of the aspects I missed the most when I was in college was my sweet puppies. It was such a joy reconnecting with them when I got home from school. We definitely need the next four months to rekindle our amazing friendships.

3. Workout

I don’t know about you, but I certainly missed the working out train during my first year of college. You might have not ever experienced this, but I got wrapped up in the new social life and the draining schoolwork that I couldn’t even realistically think about going to the gym. Therefore, whether you went to the gym or not your freshman year, the summer is a great time to make fitness goals for yourself and work on treating your body right.

4. Eat well

I was so sick of the dining hall food and the repetitive selection that I was more than ready to experience some home cooked meals. On top of this, I was able to go to the local food chains and restaurants that I missed while at school. Anyways, the summer is always a good excuse to treat yourself.

5. Sleep in

Chances are, you did not sleep much in college. Because the first year is such a huge time of adjustment, it’s likely you didn’t get to bed by 1am every night because of your outrageous workload and social schedule. And the 8:30 classes you had the following morning certainly didn’t help. Now, it is time for you to give your brain and body what it needs, which is some serious rest.

6. Reflect

It is important to look back on the school year and reflect. Maybe this isn’t something you would want to do, but I figure it would be beneficial for anyone who wants to know how they have changed from a life changing first year of college. By doing so, you can look at what you want to keep in your life for next year and new things you would like to try out. College is a time to figure out what you like and don’t like, and to realize these aspects requires a bit of reflection.

7. Work on an area of spiritual maturity

From time of self reflection you may see some areas in your heart that need some work. Summer is a quiet time, and it is perfect for reading books and reaching conclusions on how to improve in certain areas of your life. Whether the it’s greed, pride, or insecurity, acknowledging an issue in your heart is the first step to fixing it.

8. Make goals for sophomore year

This summer can be quite the time to think of what you want to pursue in sophomore year. Whether you want to focus on getting an executive position in a club you’re excited about, becoming a better friend, figuring out what you want to do with your life, or pursuing your dream internship; the sky is the limit. When times of boredom are lurking in the summer sun, this can be the perfect time to pull out a pen and paper and think of your aspirations for your next school year.

9. Spend time with high school friends

Summer is a great time to reconvene with high school friends and see what has been going on in their lives. Just because you and your friends might not go to the same college, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay invested in their world.

10. Make some money

You certainly are going to need it. I think it is absolutely hilarious that by the end of my freshman year, my bank account had hit an all time low. Now, I know it is more important than ever to save money for the crazy world of college. Whether you are a waitress or a nanny, summer gives you the free time to feel like you are making a name for yourself whilst actually adding to society.

11. Spend time with your family

My brother and I in Hilton Head a few summers ago.

After being at college for a whole year, your family certainly misses you. The summer is the perfect time to spend quality time with those you love and to cherish the time you have left before you go out in the real world.

The summer after freshman year can be uncomfortable at first, but it can soon turn into a time of bliss. These four months are the equivalent of a semester, and one would hate to see a full semester go to waste. One needs to consider that this summer might be your last summer home, with internships and study abroad trips into perspective.

So, instead of bingeing on Netflix all day, get outside and start conquering the world. The summer doesn’t have to be slow and boring, instead it can be a remarkable time for growth and enjoyment.

Start taking this summer into your own hands, and you just might be surprised at how fruitful it can be.

Xoxo,

Ash