As classes end for the semester, the squirrel population regains rodent control of the Grove. Those unlucky enough to fail organic chemistry march closer to the purgatory of summer intersession. “What to do” seeps into the minds of those navigating newfound free time.
For the more opportune of us that call the University of Mississippi a second home, summer includes a trip to a beachside house on 30A’s picturesque shoreline, two weeks of poolside strawberry daiquiris, sunburns on an island whose name starts with “Saint” and whose economy unscrupulously relies on luxury tourism — or, perhaps, a month promenading the shockingly traversable European continent.
Some of us were lucky enough to score a sweet paid internship (truly, the sparkling needle in the golden haystack) or secure scholarship money for a summer abroad. But for those of us forced to straddle a part-time job in our hometown where the only entertainment is Sonic, Walmart and the dilapidated Texaco, recharging is a seemingly indomitable task. Time is scarce, money is scarcer and the hopes of a hot girl summer are dashing.
So, for the sake of enjoying the scorching hot season that stands before us, here are a few tips for resting and recuperating, even when pockets are light.
First, use public infrastructure. Public services are under increasing scrutiny, especially in the epitome of conservative virtue – Mississippi. So, making use of taxpayer-funded resources sends a message to legislators: Americans oppose haphazard cuts to community services.
For those of us without our own swimming pools, the local pool — from the neighborhood-funded community center to the YMCA – is your de facto oasis. For those that “don’t like using public resources,” get a grip. The chance of contracting a nasty bug from chlorinated water is slim, and if you really hate children that much, go after 4 p.m. That being said, definitely wash your hands with heightened vigor after using any public bathroom.
If you’re not fond of water, hit the park. No money, no problem — luxurious, Pinterest-worthy picnics at the park are more accessible than you think. Enjoy a cost-effective snack picnic by substituting $39 Kroger charcuterie boards with Slim Jims and gummy bears. Gas station gastronomy: embrace it.
If you hate nature or if pollen is your mortal enemy, visit the nearest library. Again, demand is the beck and call for supply, so the more books checked out, the more money legislators can justify spending. Do your part to protect literacy.
A survey commissioned by Kindle and spanning 13 countries found that people who read weekly reported feeling 71% happier. Cast aside the obvious mental and intellectual benefits of flexing your brain muscles — actually reading as opposed to endlessly scrolling on TikTok is a surefire plan for personal prosperity.
As much as it sounds like I am quoting Kung Fu Panda’s Master Oogway, the second step is to be intentional about leisure.
According to a psychological study funded by the National Institute of Health, leisure significantly improves physical and emotional wellbeing. You don’t need an exclusive member pass to an all-inclusive resort or a country club card to relax.
For Letterboxd fanatics lovers, dedicate time each evening to watching a movie or episode of your choice. Streaming out of budget? Most big streaming services, from Paramount to Hulu, offer hefty discounts for college students. “The Last of Us,” “Abbott Elementary” and “Schitt’s Creek” are only $1.99 away — the same price as a single chicken nugget from the student union.
For the bookworms, there is no time like summer to revive reading habits left behind in the fourth grade. Focusing on text as opposed to 15-second reels may be difficult at first, but resist the urge to pick up TikTok and you’ll be in a literary trance sooner than you think.
Once the dorms are vacated, Facebook furniture-thrifting pages explode and Aramark employees collectively sigh in relief, “what to do” will be the only question that truly matters.
Refuse to resign yourself to a season of empty days and hollow nights. Recognize and maximize the opportunities of relaxation, and you will return to campus in August with renewed vigor and a rejuvenated spirit.
Kadin Collier is a freshman Arabic and international studies major from Hattiesburg, Miss.
