Winter Break- such a bittersweet time for us college students. After staying busy with classes, work, and the “occasional” partying over the past semester, we are more than ready to take a vacation from it all. After a few days into break, though, we become a little stir-crazy. Here are some ways for us to take full advantage of the upcoming month of free time:
Grab Last Minute Holiday Gifts: I’m sure that by now your family members have an abundance of UNH clothing, and although another Wildcats sweatshirt or t-shirt can never hurt, finding (or even making) a more sentimental gift for your parents or siblings can be key. So, take the week or so you have before Christmas to do just that!
Work: By now all of the money we saved up over summer is gone or our parents are over supporting our drinking or unhealthy eating habits. So whether you’re returning to an old job or just picking up some hours babysitting & whatnot, take advantage of it. Spring Break is quickly approaching- meaning you’ll want that extra cash to buy the perfect bathing suits and really enjoy your time, whether you’re heading to Cancun or Canada or just heading home.
Make Plans for New Years: It is always such a debate when figuring out what to do for New Years. Should you come back to Durham and see everyone? Should you stay at home and countdown to the New Year with your family? Or should you go all out and go see the ball drop in Times Square? No matter what, though, be sure to bring 2013 in with a bang!
Shop!: Take advantage of the gift cards or cash your friends and family so kindly gave to the poor college student in their life and go shopping! There will be plenty of post-holiday deals to get in on. And let’s face it, we do need that perfect, ridiculously sparkly dress for the New Year!
Spend quality time with family: Going home is more about the home cooked meals, not having to do your own laundry, and your outrageously comfortable bed. You really don’t realize how much you miss your family until you get there. So enjoy their company while you can!
Catch Up With (or Avoid) Old Friends: It is always good to reconnect with high school friends. We do tend to forget about them as we are absorbed in exploring our newfound independence and meeting an abundance of new, fun people. It can’t hurt to tell our old friends about our wonderful college experiences and to hear about theirs, as well!
Exercise: I’m sure that most of our New Year’s resolutions are going to revolve around working out more. We all know the Whit is going to be packed when we get back here at the end of January, so utilize this time to get a head start! Because, let’s face it, our college diets and holiday feasting probably haven’t been too kind to our bodies!
Don’t Forget About School: I know this is a break, but there is nothing wrong with using this downtime to prepare for and work towards the upcoming semesters or even our careers. Finding a temporary job, searching for internships, or even volunteering are all key to give you the valuable experiences you’ll need. If these seem to be looking too far ahead, you can also use this time to prepare for spring’s classes or even get a head start and take a J-term course.