A majority of students do not live on campus after freshman year. This can present some challenges for those who have long blocks of time during the school day. Like pretty much all universities, the University of Arizona makes it impossible to take classes required for graduation without having an awkward schedule. It is the norm to have a class at 10:00 a.m., nothing until 12:00 p.m. and then a class again at 1:30 p.m. or even later. If you live in a dorm or in a sorority or fraternity house, it is easy to go back home in between classes. In the event that you live off campus, it is not as simple take a quick nap or watch some television at home in between classes.
           So, what is a bored a collegiate to do with her free time? Surprisingly, there are plenty of ways to kill time and/or use time productively. The most obvious thing to do would be going to the library or ILC. If you don’t bring your computer or iPad with you to class, there are plenty of computers available to students. This is the perfect time to finish up a homework assignment, study before a class, or catch up on your favorite blogs. If the library isn’t your thing, perhaps getting some extra help at the Think Tank would be more useful. The Think Tank has locations in the Nugent building, Rec Center, and Park Student Union. It should be noted that tutoring availability is limited to certain times so it’s best to check online before you get your study on. Whilst you’re at the Rec having your English essay edited, why not get in a little exercise?
           Wear gym clothes to class or bring a bag with you to school, that way you have no excuses for not working out. Going to the rec can be a little tricky if you only have an hour so this is probably best if you have a two-hour period of time. Unless you just want to get in a quick 40 minutes on the elliptical, then go for it. Be warned, wearing extra deodorant is strongly recommended if you don’t have time to shower after working out. The rec offers lockers and showers which is another option for dedicated gym rats. After hitting up the gym, you’ll probably be pretty thirsty, specifically for coffee.
           The most effective way to waste time at the U of A is undoubtedly getting Starbucks in the Bookstore. By the time you wait in line behind twenty people, order your drink, pay and actually have the drink in your hands you’ll already be late to your next class. Word to the wise, save your own money and spend your parents by adding money to your meal plan strictly for Starbucks runs. It may be immoral, but it is frugal. In the rare event that you have extra time after getting your skinny vanilla latte, head downstairs to the technology center. You can go shopping for new headphones (on your parent’s dime if Bursars is still open!) or read a magazine. The Bookstore offers hundreds of magazines to choose from and comfy chairs where you can sit and enjoy your break. The magazine are obviously meant to be purchased, but that’s not very realistic. The Bookstore also has real books that you can read, or buy. It’s practically a Barnes & Noble in there, so take advantage of all the little treasurers the Bookstore has to offer.
           Another option is going to office hours. Generally speaking, this is not something most Freshman do because they do not feel the obligation. If you have the time and no where else to go, your professor’s (more realistically, TA’s) office is the perfect place to spend your break. You can ask them questions about the lecture, get help on homework and even have them look at your essay before it’s graded. Office hours are actually hugely beneficial because the professor and/or TA will recognize you, which is important if you need to have letters of recommendation. Time gaps between classes are really a blessing in disguise. This is one of the only times when you will be able to get some work done or relax in productive manner. If all else fails, go for a stroll on the mall, get a flu shot, and have a chat with pro-lifers.
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