We are probably all in a rush to finish our exams, move out, and begin our summer vacation. Before you head home for rest and relaxation, there are some things to keep in mind! So, if just for a moment, you may want to step out of the tunnel-vision of summer break and check off this quick list! If you think we missed anything, let us know in the comments or on Facebook or Twitter!
1. Finals
Contrary to all of our hopes and dreams, we can’t end the semester without taking finals. First, make sure you have the correct date and time for each exam! And while studying is the priority to prep for tests, don’t forget to get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and be on time! In fact, we put together some study tips of our own that may help you make the Dean’s List.
2. Clean
Whether you live in an apartment or a dorm, cleaning is necessary before heading home. As an incentive, you will probably be penalized if you fail to do so! Not cleaning your living space may result in fines from your R.A., landlord, or simply leaving valuables behind. Since SUNY is close friends with the environment, explore eco-friendly cleaning options like avoiding use of a vacuum; seeking to purchase “green” cleaning products; and disposing of hazardous waste (like light bulbs and batteries) appropriately.
3. Sell your books
It’s no secret that college students are always on a budget! If you didn’t rent your textbooks, don’t forget that you may have the option of selling your books back to the university bookstore for money back. Other companies, like Barnes & Noble online, for example, also offer textbook buy-back programs. You might be surprised by what you earn for them!
4. Donate unused goods
See those cups of Ramen Noodles sitting on top of your mini-fridge you never opened? Donate them instead of throwing them in the trash! You should either donate your non-perishables to a food bank or go above and beyond to start your own food drive. Organizations such as Students Team Up to Fight Hunger (STUFH) help students get involved and give back to the community. When cleaning out your closets, consider donating unwanted clothes to local clothes drive as well.
5. Make summer plans
When the semester ends and you say goodbye to your friends, make plans to stay in touch; you can plan a vacation with your friends or make trips to each others hometowns. Summertime is also a great opportunity to check out the millions of acres of New York State Park that we are so lucky to have in our backyards! The Department of Environmental Conservation has a really simple website where you can find information about everything outdoors and education-related that is available for anybody to use (not just New Yorkers). Check out the DEC Outdoor Activities page and learn how to discover New York’s nature!
Photo: SUNY Plattsburgh