As I finish my finals and my first year of college comes to an end, the only thing that is on my mind is returning home to New Jersey for the summer. Living in New Jersey during the summer is definitely a unique experience. Until moving away for college, I assumed most people had been to a boardwalk or have heard of pork roll before, which was definitely not the case. Here's a list of some things I'm looking forward to in NJ this summer:

1. Going to the Beach

Without fail, most people are at the beach at least one day of the week during the summer. I'm lucky enough to work at a local beach club, so I'm there most of the time already. Everyone in NJ has their go-to beach town where they flock to when the weather is nice all summer long.

2. Nights at the Boardwalk

The boardwalks have to be the best part about being in New Jersey for the summer. From Point Pleasant to Wildwood, each offers a distinct feel for whatever experience you desire. Between the rides, restaurants, and games, there is so much to do. My favorite boardwalk would have to be Wildwood, although I go to Point Pleasant and Pier Village a lot as well. Whichever one you choose, it will make for a fun night.

3. Playa Bowls, Surf Taco, and Pork Roll

The food along the Jersey Shore is amazing. Playa Bowls and Surf Taco are always packed with people coming off the beach for the day, and somehow taste even better during the summer months.

4. Concerts at PNC

PNC opens up during the warmer months to have a ton of outdoor concerts and events. Every week a new artist comes to perform, so it's likely you'll find yourself here multiple times a summer. Lawn tickets are cheap and the performances are always a great time.

5. The Balloon Festival

The Balloon Festival has to be one of the coolest events in New Jersey during the Summer. One weekend a year, a giant field fills with hot air balloons as thousands of spectators watch them in the sky. There's also vendors (who give a TON of free samples), food, music, and games. It's a summer event I look forward to every year.

6. Six Flags

Six Flags has always been a New Jersey summer staple. Tons of people every day stand in line (sometimes for hours) and wait to ride their favorite roller coaster.

7. Day Trips to NYC and Philadelphia

Being so close to two major cities has its perks. You can go to NYC or Philadelphia, enjoy the entire day, and come back home within a few hours. I know I'll be making multiple trips into each city come summertime.

8. Life in the Suburbs

After being in the city all year, I'm ready to go back to living in the suburbs. Although it can get boring, I am looking forward to the quietness of my neighborhood. Seeing grass is a plus, too.

9. Diners

New Jersey is the diner capital of the world, and for good reason. The amount of good places to eat any time of the day is awesome. Want breakfast at 2 AM? We have you covered.

10. Being HOME

I can't wait to just be home, in a place that I'm familiar with for a few months. Although I'm pretty close to home, I feel like I haven't been there in ages. I can already tell that relaxing in New Jersey all summer is going to be great.