Fortunately, finals are all over and break officially starts next week. Nevertheless, instead of lounging around for three months, it is my goal to actually be productive over break! Here are some ways to make the days count before the new semester:

1. Do something with your family

You’ll probably get to spend a lot of time with them over the break, but you won’t get to see them as often when school starts. Enjoy the time you have with them now.

2. Hang out with your friends

One of the best parts about coming home over summer break is that all your high school friends are also home. See them before you go your separate ways.

3. Do some spring (or summer cleaning)

It’s so easy to be a slob at home. But you’re not going to be the one living with the mess for during the year, so tidy up before you leave.

4. Do something fun

Watch a movie. Go on a hike. Take a trip to your local beach. When classes start, free time is a luxury that one cannot always afford.

5. Work!

Summer is a great opportunity to get an internship or volunteering experience that could boost your resume for the next recruiting season.

6. Don’t forget about school

In a perfect world, maybe every student would be immune to the stresses of school. Sadly, we don’t live in that world. School exists, and it’s not going to do you any favors to ignore it until the last minute.

Log into Sakai. Some punctual professors will post syllabi and assignments to be completed before the first class. Don’t get blindsided by these and start your semester off on the wrong foot.

Think about supplies you need. It’s really a struggle paying for textbooks and other fancy technology on top of tuition. Therefore, use this time to seek out the cheapest alternatives and save some money.

Plan out your semester. It will make you feel like you have your life together and start the new year off right.