When the school year winds down and the days slowly stretch into longer moments in the sun and shorter evenings, the summer season is right around the corner. For many students, in just three months, it will finally be time to take a deep breath after months of packed schedules, exams, early wake-ups, and late nights grinding on homework.
Iconic summers, often full of nostalgic moments, are those that stay as strong memories forever. For some, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of nostalgic moments from summer is going on a tropical vacation or even a country concert with friends. For senior Meggie Kunkel, this moment is built through the “smell of sunscreen in the air, music playing from someone’s speaker, and the unmistakable taste of salty fries after hours spent in the pool with friends.” To her, this is the kind of memory that repeats from year to year but never gets too old.
Kunkel also shared some of her summer essentials that she carries with her throughout the season. Starting off strong, she went in with items she can’t go a single summer day without: “I use a light tint Summer Fridays sunscreen along with a Laneige Lip Mask, as they keep my face moisturized throughout the day, which is so helpful, especially because I’m so active,” said Kunkel. For her, summer is about being outside and staying active as much as possible, which makes simple daily items like sunscreen and lip masks less about fashion and more about staying comfortable and protected from the sun.
After hearing about Kunkel’s summer essentials, junior Chiara Dunson had a different approach to her list. Dunson is more laid back, as she mentioned, “I’m honestly not super high maintenance in the summer. I just bring what I know I’ll actually use.” Although for Dunson hydration is key, as she mentioned overheating quickly, especially when traveling. She explained, “If I’m outside all day or even just running errands, I need ice water with me.” Along with that, she recommended keeping hair ties around her wrist at all times, so that if she is riding her bike or going on a walk, she can throw her hair up whenever convenient. Sunglasses are another necessity she refuses to forget. “A good pair of sunglasses is a must,” Dunson added. “You don’t realize how much you need them until you leave the house without them.” For Dunson, summer is not about having trendy products; it’s more about feeling prepared and comfortable each and every day.
While both upperclassmen approach their summer packing lists differently, they agree that this is the season to spend outdoors. Especially when it comes to travel, they think that a trip out of the house – whether staying in the country or adventuring out – is worth the eight-and-a-half-month wait. When it comes to travel, Kunkel recommended visiting Michigan for its towns and relaxed environment. “There are so many fun shops and coffee places,” she shared. She even mentioned an activity people are often nervous to try: jet skiing. “It’s intimidating at first, but once you get used to it, it’s so much fun.” Dunson, on the other hand, recommended that the Stingers go out of the country during Summer ’26. Her favorite spot is Italy. She said, “Even though it’s a bit pricey, the weather is always so nice, and tourists often like the museums and gardens.” Dunson proceeded by saying, “The atmosphere feels lively and full of energy during the summer.”
Whether you’re planning on traveling across the world or spending a fun afternoon in your pool with friends, both students agree that the most iconic parts of summer don’t have to be the big moments. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a bonfire, fries at the pool, or a long bike ride at sunset. As students at Seven Hills start to look ahead at their last few months of this school year, one thing is clear: summer isn’t going to be just a time to take a break from school; it’s a season full of small traditions and memories that will be remembered forever.
