There’s 74 days of summer vacation! That’s right OCSA, the last day of the 2023-2024 school year is the 29th. Now that summer vacation two weeks away, it’s time to start thinking about what to do with all of that free time.
The annual problem of our generation is finding a good way to spend it! You may not have the slightest clue in the world of what to do, or perhaps there are too many options and it’s overwhelming. After all, the last thing you want to do is commit to too many things and bite off more than you can chew.
Junior Visual Arts major, Elizabeth Gill, is not yet sure how she’s going to spend this time either, “Nothing is set in stone, but I want to enjoy a lot of time outside, be active, and just go out, especially to the beach.”
Like maybe: building a rocket! Alright, so building an entire rocket ship is overboard, but there are similar projects that require less titanium. Puzzles are always a good way to challenge the brain and create art at the same time, especially 3D puzzles that can form vases or music boxes. The recent Lego craze is also a good opportunity to test your building skills and create a Lego bouquet to put in your handmade vase.
Or climbing up the Eiffel Tower! Summer is the perfect opportunity to travel, and it is important to be safe. Do careful research on your destination such as its customs and weather, even what the people are like. It’s not always a good idea to wear the most expensive clothes and jewelry depending on where you are. When packing, it might be worth it to make a list, so nothing is left behind, if you plan on buying souvenirs, don’t forget to leave some extra space in your luggage. If you do end up forgetting something, don’t let it ruin your trip!
Or giving a monkey a shower! Volunteering at a local animal shelter is a classic summer activity, although there probably won’t be any monkeys around. PetSmart is likely to have volunteer positions available, and if transportation is an inconvenience, then consider fostering shelter animals. Or locating Frankenstein’s brain! Other volunteer opportunities that are beneficial for aspiring nurses and doctors are the programs available at AdventHealth and Orlando Health. For students looking to complete community service hours, check with your counselor that your volunteer hours will also count for community service.
Or synchronizing submarines! Some will remain on the academic grind through dual enrollment by taking college classes over the summer and participating in other programs colleges offer. There are also traditional summer camps and courses related to improving in your art!
Racing chariots, taming tiger sharks, constructing a portal to Mars! Having fun and relaxing is just as important for making the most of the summer. Go to the movie theater, play mini golf, attend a fair or an amusement park! Practice your art on your own without the pressure of a deadline or the restrictions of a rubric. Even venture into the great outdoors with the scorching sun beating down- but don’t forget to stay hydrated!
As you can see, there’s a whole lot of stuff to do before school starts this fall! So, make the most of it and the OCSA Ledger wishes you a fun and fulfilling summer!
