The summer before you start college can seem long and boring: two months spent waiting for the next phase of your life to begin. This waste of time can be avoided by finding better ways to make the most of your summer. After all, you'll be spending the next few months working hard (hopefully) and won't have much free time in between (sadly). The summer before beginning college can kick off your new life instead of being a dull and monotonous two months. These are a few suggestions with what to do during your summer break.

1. Work a summer job.

Finding employment during summer is a healthy and smart way to spend your time. Not only does it keep you occupied during the summer months, it also serves as a means for saving money to put towards tuition in the fall.

2. See a movie.

There has to be one movie you've been waiting to see all summer, and it's an easy and cheap way to have fun. Funds might be tight during the school year, or you might not have time to take a trip to the movie theater.

3. Read a book.

Whether you're a bookworm or not, reading is a great way to broaden your mind. If you want to learn more on a specific subject, pick up a how-to or a nonfiction book. If you find yourself bored with the routine and orderly nature of your life, pick up a fantasy novel. There is a wide variety of choices in the literary realm, so don't think you're limited to one genre.

4. Be a kid again.

Now that you're heading into the world of adulthood, you won't be able to afford goofing off much anymore. So take advantage of the time you have left to be carefree and silly. Create sidewalk chalk art. Blow bubbles. Rediscover your love of swinging at the park. Cool down on a slip and slide. Watch Saturday morning cartoons. Anything you loved doing as a kid is sure to be just as fun if you're willing to give it a try.

5. Find a new hobby.

You may be an Ernest Hemingway at heart, but just never picked up a pen to find out. Try cooking, drawing, singing. You don't have to be amazing at whatever it is you choose; you just have to have fun doing it.

6. Spend time with your family.

No matter how much you can't wait to get away and be on your own, you will miss them when you're gone. Be weird and silly with your siblings. Have dinner with your parents. Go spend a weekend with your grandparents. When you're away at college, you'll be able to look back on the memories you made and smile.

7. Go on an adventure.

This one can be as extravagant (or not) as you wish. You can hike up a mountain, or simply through a nature trail. Go on a search for the perfect shell at the beach. Start a rock collection from the stream in your backyard. You'll never know what fun awaits you unless you go out and find it.

8. Reinvent yourself.

There's no better time to start fresh than moving to a new place where no one knows you yet. Maybe you don't want a total transformation, just something to make you feel new and improved. Pierce your ears (a second time?), cut or dye your hair, try out a new clothing style. The change doesn't have to be outside either, it can be trying to be more outgoing or confident. How you present yourself is completely up to you.

9. Get excited for college!

Start preparing for this new stage. If you're staying on campus, go dorm shopping. Get in touch with your roommate to make plans for your dorm. Apply for jobs on campus for some extra income. Start a countdown calendar to the big day. Anything that gets you ready and boosts your excitement level for college is great. Though moving to college is a big step, it's one you should look forward to with high hopes and a positive attitude.