For many soon-to-be college students across the nation, graduation and the promise of summer vacation is nearing closer every day. A time to enjoy friends, visit the beach, save money, and get things in order for the first year of college in the fall. But what all should you be doing and not doing during the summer after high school graduation?
This summer, you should:
Follow instructions from your future college or university. Chances are, they’ll be sending you a lot of information about housing, roommates, class schedules, orientation, and everything else you could possibly think of. Make sure to do all of the things they tell you that are necessary, as you don’t want to risk your position at your school. In most cases, they’ll tell you exactly what is needed from you and when, but if you are ever uncertain, don’t hesitate to send an email or phone call to the office or adviser of the problem you’re dealing with. They will be more than happy to help you, as they’re looking out for your best interests as well.
Go to orientation. Most colleges and universities require their first year or transfer students to attend a sort of orientation before classes start. There, you will be given a tour of campus, learn more about policies, procedures, and organizations, and possibly schedule classes if you haven’t already. It’s a good time to get another look at your school, as you may not have been there since deciding to attend. You can also get any questions answered from advisers and board members, and maybe even meet future friends and roommates.
Spend time with your friends. In many cases, your high school friends will be all going off to different colleges, cities, maybe even new states and countries, so it’s important to spend time with them as much as possible during this summer. Of course, you’ll see each other often over the next few years, during breaks and everything else, but it won’t compare to seeing them every day in the familiar halls of your high school. Have fun and enjoy their company. You’ll be thankful for it in a few months.
Save money. While it may seem fun or even necessary to spend a lot of money shopping, doing things with friends, going to shows and concerts, and buying stuff for your dorm, you’re going to regret it come fall when you’re bank account is drained. By all means, have fun, and certainly buy the things you need for your new dorm or apartment, but don’t completely blow all of your graduation money on things like new clothes and movie tickets. You’ll want a safety net during your first year, especially if you are paying for your schooling yourself.
Stay out of trouble. No matter how fun something might seem in the moment, you must always remember to ask yourself if it is worth ruining your future over. Colleges can take away scholarships and even kick you out if you get into any kind of legal trouble. Take it easy this summer, have (legal) fun, and don’t stress too much. The next four (or six, or ten) years are going to be amazing, so whatever might seem like a good idea at night should be evaluated carefully.
