When spring semester ends and everyone is wrapping up their school year to go home for the summer, it can be every bit of depressing when all of the birds leave the nest and you're left with 14 credits of classes while your favorite friends are studying abroad and spending time with their family members and friends from back home. Summer in your college town can be lonely and boring, but it doesn't have to be! Open your options to make your summer away from home worthwhile.

1. Concerts

Living in Gainesville has it's perks. You're not far from the poppin' concert cities like Orlando, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and Jacksonville. Take a small road trip, even if it is by yourself, and go see some awesome shows like Glass Animals or Foster The People this summer!

2. Springs

There are many beautiful hidden springs in the city of Gainesville that are worth checking out. Devil's Den Spring (pictured) has the options of scuba diving, snorkeling, and camping! When you realize how brutal the swampy heat is, you will learn to appreciate springs like these a whole lot more.

3. Sight See

If you never took the chance to explore your college town and see the fascinating parks, museums, and theaters, now is the perfect time to do so. It won't be nearly as crowded as it is during the fall and spring semesters, and their are many options to choose from. The more popular places are the Harn Museum of Art (pictured), the Hippodrome theater downtown, and the butterfly gardens!

4. Pick Up A Hobby Or Project

You are going to have way more free time than you want during the Summer. Try taking this time to try something you have never done before such as gardening, cooking, working out, blogging, repairing an old car, it is your choice!

5. Plan A Reunion

Give yourself something to look forward to, plan a meet up with your group before the Summer ends and go somewhere exciting, like Miami or Disney! It will make the time away from your friends a little more worth it, and you will value your time with them more than ever before.