You asked:

I know this sounds weird, but I’ve developed such a sense of responsibility that summer doesn’t have me all that stoked. Where has all the fun gone, and how do I get some of that back?

As college flies before our eyes and we move into adulthood, it’s easy to forget that we still have some time left to have fun! To make the best of your summer -- without giving up your sense of responsibility -- strive for balance. Find something fun in everything you do!

• Take time off to relax. It’s summer! Even if you’re working, don’t be afraid to ask for some days off. Visit the park, museums or the movies. Remember that stack of books you didn’t have time to read during the school year? This will probably be one of the last times you can take off such a long period of time for vacation, so embrace it!

• Give back to the community. Spend some time volunteering. Find a charity or center you support, and reach out. Many volunteering opportunities are a lot of fun. You’ll be helping others and feeling good about yourself -- what could be better?

• Travel! Explore places you haven’t been before. If it’s in your budget, go somewhere you won’t ever have the chance to go! If you’re strapped for cash, go places nearby that won’t cost as much. Plan mini road trips with your friends.

• Plan ahead. Make lists of things you’ve always wanted to do and, now that you have a break, do them! Make lists of movies you want to see, places and restaurants you want to check out, parks where you want to relax, or things you’ve always wanted to learn. Call up your friends to tag along!

• Get a part-time job that you consider to be fun! You’ll make money that you can use to enjoy your time off. But don’t work too hard -- enjoy some of the summer by only working part-time!

Name: Jonathan Fieweger
School: New York University
Major: Arts Administration and Cultural Policy
His deal: Jonathan is an R.A. for sophomores at NYU. He is tour guide in the undergraduate admissions office on campus and is also president of a food rescue and sustainability club on campus. Currently, he works at DreamWorks Theatricals as a press and marketing intern.

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