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7 Things You Should be Doing Over Break, But Probably Aren’t

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UNCW chapter.

With Christmas Break in full swing, us collegiates put off the same things over and over again. Check out this list of what you should be doing over break, but probably aren’t (we’re not judging!). It’s sure to lessen the stress load that new semester’s can bring!

Visit Family

Many students put off seeing family unless it’s a holiday or it’s last minute. Most likely, once school starts back up you won’t be able to go home much. Take this opportunity to visit everyone that you need to in your family. Time spent with loved ones is never wasted and it is sure to mean a lot to whoever you visit with.

See old friends

As our college years pass by, high school buddies drift away. Good news is that nearly every college has time off during the holiday season, so you can meet up with your old friends. Catch up on everything that you’ve missed, have fun and make an agreement to meet up sometime during the school year.

Finalize your spring schedule

Whether we like to believe it or not, break will come to a close and the new semester will begin. Make sure that you’re signed up for the correct classes and see how heavy your course load will be. Maybe even email your advisor to ask those questions you’ve been putting off!

Visit your doctor

Let’s admit it, no one likes going to the doctor. Let’s also admit that we put off our health during the semester…it happens. Use your time off to visit with your doctor and check up on whatever may have been bothering you this past semester, whether it be your physical or mental health. If nothing comes to mind, get a regular checkup to ensure that your health is well.

Apply for that scholarship

If you’re like me, scholarships are necessary to get through college. It’s hard to find the time to sit down, research and apply for scholarships during the school year in the midst of everything else. So, take this rare free time to find a few to apply for and submit them!

Brainstorm

Don’t let your brain become completely desolate while classes are not in session. Brainstorm some ideas to not only get your mind thinking, but to prepare yourself for what’s ahead. Create a gym schedule around your classes, make that budget you’ve always wanted to but never got the chance to. Just get thinking!

Order textbooks

Oh, the dreaded task that makes you never want to look at your bank account–ordering textbooks. We all know it’s coming and many of us wait until the last minute to do it. Take the initiative and order them before classes begin. It’ll be one less stress to deal with. If you’re unsure what you’ll need, email the professor. They’ll be glad to see that you’re preparing ahead of time!

Starting off the semester on the right foot will guarantee a positive start to your school year. Don’t put off important things–instead, take initiative on your health, academics and social life.

Kaitlyn is a student at The University of North Carolina Wilmington attaining a degree in communication studies with a focus in public relations and minor in journalism. She will be graduating in May of 2015 with a B.A. In addition to starting a Her Campus chapter at UNCW, she also is a contributing writer for USA TODAY College and has interned for local WILMA magazine and The Greater Wilmington Business Journal. When she's not writing, her time is spent working or reading magazines of all varieties. Kaitlyn plans to move to New York City after graduation to pursue a career in journalism. You can follow her on twitter @KaitlynRussell_