By Maddox Brown
Salutations:
Well, we have made it. We have passed through the challenging school year of 2021-2022. Although we had many obstacles in our way this year—one of which being the current rampant viruses—we still managed to strive through it all and complete our classes with stellar results, or at least I hope they ended with stellar results!
The final day of school is approaching, and this means looking into what to do during the summer of 2022. For some of us, we have already found this thing in the form of summer programs or jobs. However, for the ones still contemplating what to do, here are a few recommendations that might intrigue you or spark your imagination.
Take a Hike:
Summer is probably the best time for some good, old, fashioned hiking. The warm atmosphere and fluorescent wildlife truly makes it a sight for sore eyes while traversing the terrain, whether it may be soft and grassy, or rough and rocky. Bring some friends along for the ride if that makes the trip more worthwhile for you. However, there are still some preparations you need to make before heading out.
First, ready yourself with some protective equipment and food/water. These are basic necessities for hiking, especially for long periods of time. Cover yourself up with some long sleeves or shades. It may sound contrary to the current season, and you are totally right if you think that … but hear me out. The more of your body that you are able to cover up and shield from the sun, the easier the hike will be, and the happier you’ll be. Oh yeah, and bring some sunscreen, because it never hurts to bring it.
Hang Out With Friends and Family:
This seems a bit obvious at a glance, and it is, but let me give it further emphasis. When you have the time, try to hang out with friends and family. This will help your overall well-being. Specifically, it helps boost your happiness as well as reduces stress levels. It improves your self-confidence and self-worth. Lastly, it improves bonds between friends and family. These are all great benefits that could help you get a blazing head start when school begins again. Activities you can do with friends or family can range from the previously mentioned hiking, to picnics, war reenactments, swimming, sky-diving, fighting off a bear, etc. The sky’s the limit!
Volunteer:
It never hurts to volunteer to help others for a greater good. Not to mention, it looks highly pleasant on your resume, showcasing your dedication to helping form a better community. Sign up for volunteer activities like gardening in designated lots or parks in your neighborhood because block associations and the NYC Parks Department always like a friendly face helping improve their plant-life. Volunteering gives you a sense of purpose and motivation to start your summer day with a smile and a burning sensation to go out. It allows you to get more in touch with your community, which can lead to you making new friends! It can also teach you valuable new skills that can help you in the long run.
Continue Your Hobbies:
If you don’t particularly fancy going outdoors or hanging out with other people, then you may find solace in working on your personal hobbies. Playing video games, coding, exercising, you name it. If you prefer to do such stuff to ease the mind during your vacation, then so be it. Go for it! It is your summer, make it worthwhile while it lasts.
We’ve made it through another year of school. So now it is time to relax and recalibrate ourselves. Use your free time wisely, never waste a single moment of it, or else you will soon come to regret it. Now, be on your way, and enjoy your summer! See you in the next school year.