Make the Most of Summer Break from College Tips for students to recharge and level up.
Congratulations, students! Another school year is over. You’ve survived Monday morning lectures, late-night study sessions, deadlines, and finals. Don’t just use the time off to recharge—level up! Here are five tips for making the most of summer break.
- Rest is the best medicine.
For many college students, school can be emotionally, socially, and even physically exhausting. Whether you’re spending the summer at home or at your off-campus apartment, be sure to take time to slow down and rest. Take up a yoga class, spend time outside (don’t forget sunscreen!), or even just allow yourself the luxury of sleeping in a little later than you can when class is in session! - Add something new to your resume.
Summer break is the perfect time to engage in experiences that can reflect your interests, passions, and pursuits on your resume. Look for an internship, job shadow opportunities, or even hobbies that increase your knowledge and will prove to future employers you’re serious about learning in your field. Check with your school’s career center or advisor for resources. - Keep learning.
For students wanting to keep their momentum going, take a summer course through your school or local community college (just make sure credits will transfer!). It’s a great way to satisfy core requirements or earn your degree faster. Counselors from Nebraska Methodist College offer a word of warning: “Keep your expectations realistic though, and don’t overload yourself with too much work.” - Travel someplace new.
“The best education I have ever received was through travel.” – Lisa Ling
Whether exploring a new country or a new-to-you location in your hometown, broaden your horizons this summer by traveling someplace you’ve never been. Discovering the history of a place, being immersed in a different culture, or even being exposed to art you’ve never seen at a museum will help you gain knowledge you won’t get in the classroom. - Practice self-care.
Maybe the most practical of the tips, the summer is a great time to take care of your annual well checks. Get your dental cleaning and annual physical checked off your to-do list. Self-care can also include banking time with family, having fun with friends, and reconnecting with your church community.
The United Methodist Higher Education Foundation stays busy over the summer processing scholarships ahead of the new fall semester. How will you spend your summer?