In what feels like the blink of an eye, my college career is wrapping up and I'm knee deep in my final summer as a student. Before I dive into the big wide real world, I wanted to share a few tips that I'm following to make the most of my last summer of (somewhat freedom).

1. Embrace Adventure.

Be willing to travel, hike, camp, climb mountains, take short day trips, ride roller coasters. Say yes to opportunities to get out and have fun. You'll only be twenty-something for so long.

2. Catch Up With Old Friends.

As we grow and move on from high school and college, dorm rooms and small towns, we won't always have our friends right at home. We'll eventually grow up, pursue career opportunities, travel aimlessly, or settle down and get married. Enjoy the time you have with your friends (from high school and college). Go on lunch dates or road trips or have pool days or enjoy a good sleepover like the old days!

3. Be Childish (in a good way).

Summer is the best time to embrace our inner kiddo! Nowhere in any adult contract I've signed has it said "adults must never slip and slide." or "adults can't play in the sprinkler." or "adults can't eat three s'mores and then roll down a grassy hill." Being an adult doesn't mean we can't be a little childish sometimes.

4. Work a Little, Save a Little.

While I've tried to ensure that I don't spend my last summer of freedom working my life away, I do understand that bills and tuition don't go away with the school year. Using the summer as a time to work a little extra and put aside money for the coming semester is a great use of your time.

5. Don't Sweat the Bikini Bod.

I see a lot of young women really concerned about the concept of having a "summer body" or "bikini body" and while I'm not going to discourage anyone from living a fit and healthy lifestyle, I am going to discourage obsessing to the point of self-hate. Be confident in your body. Wear a swimsuit that you love, don't hide inside because you don't think your body is "bikini ready." My body is ready for excessive amounts of watermelon, ice cream, and s'mores. Embrace it, girl.

6. Get Creative.

Make something you love. Take up a new hobby. Paint, sew, cook, take photos. There are hundreds of ways to be creative. Some of these hobbies can even be turned into side hustles to make you a little extra summer fun money! Get those creative juices flowing!

Summer can be a great tool, take advantage of it!