And we’re back! It seems like it was just a few weeks ago that I was starting college and moving into my freshman dorm room. Fast-forward eight months and here I am back at home in New York City. I’m two weeks into summer break and have already exhausted way too many of Netflix’s documentaries, so I came up with this list of things I want to do (or have done in previous summers) to actually be productive this summer instead of watching Criminal Minds all day!
1. Being More Active
Like many others, I had gotten into working out during quarantine (thanks to Chloe Ting). During college, I lost touch with my passion for working out because I was always busy with school and extracurriculars. Consistency is key to a healthier lifestyle and whether it be a few minutes of yoga or going on a run in the morning, I find that early exercises help start my days with more energy, focus, and optimism.
2. Read More
I have never been an avid reader, but I took it upon myself to occasionally read at Centennial this past semester and found that it was very therapeutic (especially on days where the weather was nice!!). As someone who struggles with insomnia and anxiety at times, I definitely find that a good hour or so of reading just seems to make me feel much better.
Here are some books that I hope to get through this summer:
- The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
- The Push: A Novel by Ashley Audrain
- Legend by Marie Lu
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*** by Mark Manson
3. Volunteer
There are many opportunities to do good in the community and I find that summer break is the perfect time to engage yourselves in your communities! While the pandemic may have limited the availability of some volunteer opportunities, there are still plenty of ways to bring good to those in need. You can contact organizations for causes you care about for opportunities, sign up to work at local food banks, support front-line workers, become an online tutor, and much more.
4. Learn a New Language
I have started volunteering at a local eye clinic in Chinatown, NYC and the main reason why I wanted to get into the healthcare field is because I love interacting with patients. Most of the patients are Asian and to be honest, it has been a bit of a struggle communicating with them since most of them speak Mandarin and I am only moderately fluent in Cantonese. I have been in and out of Chinese school throughout my childhood and can comprehend a bit of Mandarin, but I definitely hope that my summer at the eye clinic, along with some self-learning, will strengthen my Mandarin.
5. Relax!
Its summer break!! After a stressful school year and with summer classes starting, taking time to de-stress is crucial as well. With the pandemic restrictions loosening up, I will definitely be planning some picnics, beach days and Sunday brunches with my friends and family.
