Make the Most of Your Summer!

Just two days ago, humid Boston almost hit the nineties. Yes, summer is finally here! 

A seagull at Revere Beach.

As a freshman, I had no idea what I wanted to do during my first college summer. As everyone began making plans, I frantically began applying to programs that I thought would be helpful for a future career in science.  Luckily, I made it into a research program through the FAS Systems Biology department as a summer intern.  

Yet, I admit now, as a rising senior, that I didn't make the most of my freshman summer.  Despite being able to participate in fascinating research on misfolded proteins, I didn't spend much time with my family during our three-month break, something that my homesick heart had been yearning to do all year. In an effort to beef up my resume and do something "useful," I sacrificed an important internal need. The next year, as a sophomore, I decided to find work a bit closer to home so that I could enjoy the limited, precious time there was with those I loved. 

This comes a bit late when most folks already have their summer plans in order.  However, if parts of your summer are still in the air, I would recommend thinking about why you are doing what you plan to do. By choosing to do one activity, you sacrifice another. On one hand, the summer is the perfect time to do research, allowing for full-time immersion and a small glimpse into the life of a graduate student. On the other hand, beware of burn-out! 

Let yourself relax this summer and enjoy the good weather and good company. College is short, and there will never be another time like it!

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Sand and sandals.