I'm going to be spending my summer back in my hometown, despite my efforts to get an internship elsewhere. So I've been brainstorming some ways to really enjoy my summer regardless! I think the best idea I've had so far is to convince my father to buy a puppy, but here are some other, more practical ideas.

1. Take a day trip

Maybe your hometown is boring, but get in your car and go somewhere else! Explore the closest biggish city or drive through the countryside and find unique small towns. I live in Lexington and I love to take day trips up to explore Cincinnati or drive through the rolling hills of KY.

2. Change your hair

I'm a big fan of experimenting with your hair, and summer is the time to do it! If it looks bad, you have time to grow it out/fix it before anyone sees. I dyed my hair red for the first time over the summer four years ago and I'm still doing it today.

3. Get a hobby

Pick up a new creative hobby to occupy yourself with! Try writing, photography, painting, or anything else. I love photography, and a calm summer gives me time to get back into it. Spend time doing the things you never feel like you have time for during the school year.

4. Find a new favorite author

I recently read my first Agatha Christie novel and I definitely plan to read more of her work this summer. Find a library and spend your summer discovering new books. Read for fun, because during the year you'll have to read for class.

5. Go hiking

Enjoy that nature! Find some hiking trails near you and get some fresh air in your lungs. Hiking is great for your mood and for taking aesthetic pics.

6. Try out every coffee shop

Hit up every single coffee shop and little cafe you've never bothered to stop in before. Take a friend with you and talk about anything over iced coffee.

7. Sunshine

Enjoy the weather!! We tend to be the most depressed in the winter when there's less sunshine and more cold days. So soak up that vitamin D, get a nice tan, and let the sun boost ya mood while you can!

8. Make hella money

A little boring BUT your future self will be very thankful. If you've got nothing to do, pick up a second job! Spend your summer making money; every college student needs more money in their bank account.

9. Treat yo' self

Have a spa day, do some face masks, take a bath, work on your skin! Come back to the fall semester with bammin' skin.

10. Get healthy!

Now that you have more time, you have less excuses. Go to the gym, or go for a walk every day! Eat some fruit and vegetables, learn how to cook. Build healthy habits you can maintain later.