On May 20, 2016, Most Louisiana Tech will leave campus until the fall. Many will drive home to be with friends and family, but what about those of us who get left behind? How can one enjoy a summer at school? Here are my top five summer activities for residents of Ruston, Louisiana.

1. Arbor & Terrace Nursing Home

During the school year, students frequent this facility for community service hours and extra points. Yet we forget this is their home. Many men and women are widowed and their families are too busy to stop by. If you are in town for the summer, consider making a friend with nothing more than age separating you. Nursing homes provide much more than bonus points and hours, you gain a friend. A friend who values your time. The life events of his or her past can provide you with humor and lessons which will become invaluable to your life.

2. Lincoln Parish Park

This park is rich in activities. There are fields for games, trails for falling off of your bike, and a lake to take a dip in. This may be the most basic place in all of Ruston, but it is the most fun. Channel your inner hipster by catching a nap swinging in an Eno. There are opportunities for camping and feeding geese. Lincoln Parish Park is the crown jewel of outdoor activities in Ruston.

3. Louisiana Tech Archery Range

If you are looking to pick up a new hobby and pretend to be Katniss, the archery range is for you. Nestled behind the Equine Center at Louisiana Tech, this range is full of life. Frequented by members of the fraternity Alpha Gamma Rho, you may score more than points at this range.

4. Boys & Girls Club

It does not matter if you were raised with silver spoons or plastic sporks, giving your time to this organization is sure to bring you joy. Children from all walks of life play after school and are mentored by men and women. Ruston is honored to have this boys and girls club. Take some time from relaxing in the sun to be a friend to a local child. After all, these could be future Bulldogs!

5. Louisiana Tech Arboretum

Officially dedicated on May 12, 1967, the Arboretum boasts its presence on south campus. It's history dates back to 1947 with an establishment of a modest acre of slash pine. It has now grown to over 74-acres in size with a 14-acre pond. This educational masterpiece was established to promote community service, research, and conservation. During the summer months, the Arboretum is full of life. It will become your favorite place for morning walks.

Taking summer classes or having an internship does not mean the summer excitement has ceased. Ruston requires a little adventure and a lot of appreciation for the little things. This town is crawling with activities waiting to be discovered.