Many moons ago (before college), my summers were always the same – whether I was sitting at home watching cable TV or walking around outside with the neighborhood kids, the summer was consistent. Since beginning college, however, each summer has been a new experience for me, with its own sets of friends, goals, and activities.
My first summer was spent recklessly (see below, “The Partier”) while my second summer was spent taking six courses and working two full-time jobs. This summer, I am attempting to be the Self-Improver… fingers crossed.
Here are a few broad descriptions of several types of students that you either can be or will encounter this summer:
The Over-Achiever. This student is already registered for a full summer course load, and probably has an impressive internship that you never knew existed, as well. Though this student can be commended for their sacrifices and efforts, they should be shown no sympathy when they spend the entire summer complaining because they took on too many obligations.
The Partier. Bring on the pool days, Netflix binges, and 3 a.m. Waffle House runs, because this student is going to have a moderately wild summer! If you’ve never had the liberty of having a relaxing summer between insane semesters as a college student, then you’re missing out – there is so much free time that can be filled with shenanigans and adventures. I was lucky enough to be this student two summers ago; make sure to set aside at least one summer of fun in your college career. It doesn’t have to be stressful all of the time.
The Traveler. Beyond Facebook and Instagram photos, you won’t see this student over the summer because they will be too busy traveling to cooler places than your hometown. Traveling is the student’s ultimate dream of escaping their deadlines and expectations in order to spend time in new and interesting locations.
The Self-Improver. Students in their self-improvement phase will claim to have it all together again by the time school reconvenes in the fall. Some will spend the entire summer breaking bad habits, or over-indulging them in the hopes of “getting it out of the system” before school starts. Common issues this student has include procrastination, a terrible attention span, and frequent tardiness or absences. This student will be spending the summer working out, eating healthy, organizing their life, and hopefully making better decisions. There is a 75% likelihood that they will start out strong in the fall and then revert to old habits as a response to stress from school.
Whether your summer is a hybrid of these or completely unique and un-generalizable, I hope at least some of it was relatable. Have a great summer, and remember to make this one different!