College is when we can get away from home and spread our wings a bit. We are away from our parents and start to officially become the adults that we are meant to be. Every time that I leave my school, I get upset because I'm far away from my friends and what has become my normal. I'm not the only one who feels this way. It is a common thing. However, I am glad that I am home because I get to see my family, but I also get time to refresh.

Most of the time when we are at school, we are stressed because of classes, social activities, jobs, etc. It can be hard to truly take time for yourself. Habits that helped you take care of yourself can quickly be lost because of hectic schedules. Last semester, I went to the gym and this semester, I decided to start eating healthier. I did not go to the gym this semester and I only ate healthy for about a month. The busier I became, the less meals I started having and the more snacks I started eating. I needed something quick, so snacks were perfect. I allowed my stress to throw me off track, but now that it's summer, I can really take some time to pick them back up. One of the big things that I really missed was having a home cooked meal. It is easier to eat healthy when you know what you are putting into your body. Also, it is an easy way to figure out what new foods you might like.

I really don't do much back at home since some of my friends aren't around, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. It is good to take some time to watch Netflix, read, nap, paint, etc. Do things that you like. I want to do a lot of crafts this summer and go for walks. I love going for walks. It is good to do things alone. It is also important to get out and hang out with your friends. Go on adventures, to the beach, to movies, out to eat. Do things that are fun and try something new.

School isn't the only time when you learn. You can learn so much from being around your friends and family or even when you're alone. Summer is a time to reflect on the past and plan for the future. Have fun, but don't forget what your goals are. Continue to work towards those goals. Get a job to save up for that study abroad trip or get an internship. Do things that will help you succeed in the future and help you learn more about your passions. Also, volunteer your time and resources. Give some of yourself to others. For example, you can go on a mission trip or volunteer at a homeless shelter. There are so many things that you can do to help others.

This summer, I challenge everyone to take a step back to reflect on the past and look to the future. It is never too late to do the things that you want to do. At the risk of sounding cliche, the world is yours and you get out of life what you put in it. Try new foods, go to new places, meet new people, and help others. There is so much that you can discover.