You survived finals week. Barely. Your brain is fried, your body’s running on instant noodles and beer, and your sleep schedule is wrecked beyond belief. Welcome to summer—your golden window to get your life back on track and still have a good time.
Whether you’re gearing up for sophomore year or entering the real world, this break isn’t just for chillin’—it’s for leveling up. Here’s what every college student should do this summer:
1. Establish a Workout Routine
Let’s be honest: your only “cardio” this past semester was running to class because you overslept. Use summer to build a real fitness routine. Whether it’s lifting weights, joining a rec sports league, or following a simple YouTube bodyweight plan—just get consistent. This isn’t about looking like a Marvel superhero (though, bonus if you do), it’s about feeling better and having more energy.
2. Fix Your Eating Habits
You can only live off ramen, frozen burritos, and Budweisers for so long. Summer is the time to learn how to make actual meals. Start small: grilled chicken, some veggies, and rice is a game-changer. Learn to make smoothies. Swap soda for water. You don’t need to go full keto—just stop eating like a raccoon in a vending machine.
3. Learn Real-Life Skills
This is the stuff college doesn’t teach you but life demands. Learn how to budget. Watch a YouTube video on changing a flat tire. Cook breakfast without using the smoke alarm as a timer. Better yet, pick up a skill that makes you money: photography, editing, car detailing, coding, basic IT stuff. You’ll thank yourself later.
4. Get Certified in Something Useful
Summer is prime time to stack up your resume. Think beyond GPA—grab a short online cert in something valuable. Some ideas:
- Google IT Support Certificate
- CPR & First Aid (free through Red Cross events)
- Photoshop or Canva design courses
- Microsoft Excel or Power BI
- Social Media Marketing
Even if it’s not in your major, it shows initiative—and that sets you apart.
5. Actually Enjoy Your Summer
Go touch grass. Hang out with friends. Visit your grandparents. Plan a road trip. Hit the beach. Take dumb Polaroids. Play backyard games. Have a bonfire. Create core memories you’ll talk about years from now. You don’t get a lot of summers like this—make it count.
Final Word:
You don’t have to grind all summer, but don’t waste it either. Use this time to reset, recharge, and make yourself better—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.
Season resets are the new “new year new me”