So, you’ve graduated from high school and you’re going on to your first year of college, but you’re not sure what to do during your summer break. It can be exciting, but difficult, to leave your friends and family when going to college out-of-state or further from your home. Here are some ways to spend your time before you start your first year of college.

Take summer classes. Taking summer classes during your break -- at your community college, for example -- can help you save money, whether you are going to a university or a state college. You’ll learn what college classes are like, and you’ll have time to adjust before you start your freshman year. You’ll also have the option for a lighter course load in your freshman year.

Travel. Traveling, whether in your state or around the world, can help you gain a new perspective for your own area. You’ll get a chance to learn what is happening in other communities and even try new foods you hadn’t heard of before. You can learn more about a foreign country, or just have fun exploring places you’ve never been to in your home state.

Volunteer. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to develop skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork. You’ll build your resume, give back to others, and meet your college’s community service requirements (if applicable).

Get an internship. Find an internship that interests you -- preferably one that is related to your chosen career. A good internship can be a resume builder, while also fostering improvement in areas such as writing, time management, and data entry. An internship can also help you learn new skills, get started on your career path, and network with others in your field.

Spend time with friends and family. Your first year of college can be stressful with schoolwork and extracurriculars, and you may not have enough time to unwind with the ones you love. Spending time with your friends and family before school starts builds a strong support system, which will help prevent stress and protect your mental health.