Decompress and Detox
A Summer Guide to Self-Care for College Students
BY Anna Altman ★ April 28th, 2025
graphic by Olivia Rosen
As summer approaches rapidly, students are bubbling with various feelings. Some may be thrilled to step away from campus and rejuvenate, while others may be filled with nerves about returning to their routine at home. It’s important to continue being our best selves over the summer so we can return to school with confidence and ease. Change can be scary, especially after nearly nine months, so let’s discuss some ways we can approach this summer with kindness toward ourselves.
Continue to Embrace your Passions
It can be hard to prioritize your most niche interests in such an academic setting, so the perfect time to reconnect with those passions is during the summer. Perhaps you absolutely love to sing, but just don’t have time to practice at school. Maybe you used to play tennis recreationally, but the weather was too chilly at Syracuse to continue. Take time every day to do something meaningful to you, no matter how small or unrelated to your studies or job it may be.
Find a Summer Job that will Fulfill You
Staying busy is crucial in maintaining a satisfying routine. Finding a meaningful job adds consistency and stability to the somewhat loose structure of summer. Consider applying for jobs that seem genuinely enjoyable to you and that will appreciate your qualities. For instance, if you love coffee and customer interaction, try being a barista in a cute, cozy café. If you have an adoration for animals, there are undoubtedly dog shelters near you that could use an extra hand.
Connect in Person and Stay Offline
Take advantage of the presence of your friends and family you don’t see year-round. Instead of spending time on social media, spend time with people who provoke genuine laughter and happiness in you. Take that hour-long drive to the beach with your girls, or set aside two days to visit your favorite amusement park. Ignore what you see on social media; it’s never the full story and glamorizes everything and everyone. Your addiction to your phone has the potential to bring down your spirits, and your connections with the people closest to you will keep you motivated and content.
P.S. Summer may be a good time to step away from boys and take space for your favorite girls.
Nourish your Body and Mind
Returning to your kitchen over the summer gives you space to experiment with new recipes and cooking styles. Try cooking a few meals you’re unfamiliar with, whether they be glorious desserts or nutritious dinners. Fueling yourself with rich, delicious foods will give you the energy you need to stay driven and fulfilled at home. The more nourished your body is, the more relaxed and focused your brain will be. It’s the perfect time to support your favorite local ice cream and coffee shops, too!
Consider these few pieces of advice this summer, and even try adding your own strategies to the list. Remember your goals and intentions, and stay extra compassionate toward yourself this summer. Soon, September will be right around the corner again.