One week without class is a big deal for college students. By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, we are usually tired and ready for a break from the constant studying, writing papers and taking tests. This usually means that during this week off we binge watch Netflix and relax at home. That is good for awhile, but I think we should all take advantage of this week off to do things that'll help us in the long run. Here are a few things you can do to make this Thanksgiving break a little more productive.

1. Get ahead for finals.

I know this is a break from classes, but it never hurts to get ahead. You'll thank yourself when everyone else is up until 4 am studying and you're able to sleep because your study guide is already done.

2. Host a friends-giving.

The holidays are usually family focussed, but friends are family too.

3. Start holiday shopping.

Once Thanksgiving passes, the malls will be packed and the lines will get longer. Not to mention Black Friday and Cyber Monday are this week. Take advantage of those sales to help your college student budget.

4. Get Thanksgiving dinner recipes.

Recipes are usually passed down through generations. Take this time to get them written down so you are prepared when it's time for you to cook Thanksgiving dinner.

5. Try out a new recipe.

If you're the kind of person who just shows up for Thanksgiving dinner, try to branch out this year. There are countless recipes all over the internet, and your family (might) thank you for adding a little extra to the table.

6. Learn how to cook.

If you are scared to try out new recipes because of your lack of cooking skills, try learning a few things from the woman/man in the kitchen this year. Not only will they thank you for the help, but you'll be thankful when it's your turn.

7. Relax.

This doesn't mean spend the whole break on the couch, but reading a book or cozying up by a fire will be appreciated come finals week. Relaxation is not usually in the vocabulary of a college student, so if you get the time, take advantage.

8. Workout.

Spend a little time at the gym or on a run outside so the extra calories you know you want to consume won't feel as bad. Plus, it's just good for you overall to get moving.

9. Enjoy the last of the fall weather.

Technically fall ends in mid-December. Get in those last few hikes or Eno days at the park, because it'll start getting colder soon.

10. Apply for spring internships.

If you're still searching for internships for the spring/summer semester, now is a good time to start applying. Perfect your resume, write your cover letter, and get those applications in.

11. Enjoy the family time.

No matter how hectic having all of your family members in the same house try to enjoy it. Family time is important and you should try to remember to cherish the time spent with each person around the table.

12. Think about what you're thankful for.

Your family, your friends, your pet, your job and your education are all privileges some might not have. Spend some time to soak in the greatness of them all. It is Thanksgiving after all.