With summer comes free time galore. But what to do with all that free time? It’s tempting to stay inside all day and scroll, but even without any internships or vacation plans, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the summer months that are productive and personally fulfilling.

Develop a new skill

There’s plenty of time to develop a practical skill that could help you in the long run. Cooking and cleaning are good examples, especially if you’re moving into an apartment or dorm equipped with a kitchen. If this doesn’t apply to you, learning how to garden and grow your own produce is a fantastic way to save money and live sustainably!

Read a book

A 2025 study showed that over time, people tend to lose interest in reading for personal pleasure. But there’s extensive research on the benefits of reading, including improving memory, focus, and even mental health. Support your local library, or consult your To Be Read (TBR) shelf for your next gripping read! Chapman’s Leatherby Libraries also allows students to check out books during the summer.

Travel, even just locally

It’s nice to have a change in scenery. There are many quick, financially viable ways to do that! Explore your city for local attractions, look into last-minute flight deals, or hop on a train to somewhere new! There are train lines, museums, and other cultural establishments that offer student discounts.

Focus on your health

Summer break is perfect for maintaining your physical and mental health. Getting regular exercise and eating healthy has numerous benefits, including stress relief, boosting immunity, and energizing you for the rest of your day. Summer is also a good time to practice mindfulness before academic life resumes. It might inspire you to incorporate new habits into your school schedule!

Go outside

Being out in nature raises your Vitamin D levels, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function. Hit the beach or explore a park nearby, maybe even bring your pet for a walk or a couple of friends for a picnic. Take a hike on a new trail. You might even find outdoor volunteer opportunities that will strengthen your resume and help you make new friends!

Take a summer course

Summer courses help you graduate earlier, devote more time to major-specific programs, try electives, or just free up your week. Even if you aren’t gaining college credit, you could still take a course on something you’re curious about that may not be offered at Chapman. Community colleges and local community centers have several options, both in-person and online.

Plan for next semester

It’s never too early to plan ahead. This might include looking into clubs or other opportunities you’re interested in, and how to best prepare for them. Summer break is also a good time to organize your work/school schedule and review old class notes that might supplement your next course load.

Gain job experience

If you have an internship or job, give it all you’ve got! This is the time to gain valuable experience by making lasting connections, working hard, and exploring an industry you’re interested in. Even if you didn’t land a summer job or internship, there are still ways to stay ahead career-wise, like updating your resume/LinkedIn profile, or volunteering somewhere you feel passionately!

Indulge in a hobby (or try a new one)

Hobbies are a great way to keep your mind engaged, whether on your own or through a class. Indulge in a hobby that you’re already familiar with, or try a new one! Ideas include sewing, playing an instrument, creating art, and much more!

Take time to relax

Sometimes we really do need days where we just do nothing. And that’s okay! College is exhausting, and burnout affects everybody. Recharge while you still have the freedom to do it– your body will thank you when the next semester arrives!

Feel free to choose one or two of these ideas and run with them this summer! Once you find the right balance of rest, productivity, and mental/physical enrichment, you’ll find yourself ready to make the most of the next semester, having made the most of your time off!