It’s no secret that the holiday break is finally upon us, and it can’t be a more exciting time to finally break away from the constant stress and burden of exams or 10-page papers. 'Tis the season to enjoy family you haven’t seen in a while, or even meet up with close friends from back home. It is also a time to prepare yourself for the do’s and don’ts of the holiday season.
Do Bake:
When is there going to be another time where you will be able to make a ridiculous amount of cookies or pies? What better way to get into the holiday spirit than to fill the house with the delicious aroma? Cookies are the perfect gift to take to holiday parties, and the best part: you got to taste them right as they came out of the oven.
Do catch up with old friends (and stay in touch with new ones):
Invite them over for a little binge-watching of sappy love Christmas movies, or the classic "Elf." We have social media at our fingertips for a reason. Use it and share the holidays with people closest to you for memories you won’t forget.
Don’t be a couch a potato:
I know it’s tempting to just eat as much as you can before you have to return to what the dinning halls call “food,” but don’t lay around all break. Go exercise. It will make you feel good…about eating more food later.
Do apply for scholarships or internships:
This is the perfect opportunity to utilize your time off in the best way possible. Even if you only devote an hour in applying, it will only help you in the long run.
Don’t show up any more without doing your homework!:
You will honestly regret it if you put off all your homework until the last day it’s due. If you can accomplish one task before going to any holiday parties, you will make your life a lot less stressful.
Don’t weigh in on any arguments:
There is always going to be some controversy over which family member believes a certain political party is better than the other. This is your opportunity to fill up your drink or go grab another piece of pie, and don’t return until the subject is changed. It’s best to avoid these conversations at all cost.
Do make time for family:
After all, they are providing a roof over your head while you stay home for break. You know you are going to miss them when you have to head back to school and stress over the next big exam. Make a certain day or two where you just stay home and enjoy the company of your family. It will definitely be worth your time.
Do plan your schedule for next semester:
Obviously the last thing on our minds is going back to school or even scheduling for next year. But it’s good to at least have your “ducks in row,” so to speak. You want to be sure you are able to get the classes you want, and if you can’t, you need a back up plan.
Do catch up on reading:
This is not the required reading college students are forced to read, but rather something you enjoy. For onc,e you have an opportunity to read something you have a choice in reading, which you should take advantage of.
Don’t stay in the house all break:
Go out and see a movie, shop, or go for a drive somewhere you haven’t been in a while. Remember the simple things of being home, and take advantage of them. Who knows, your hometown could have gotten a new shopping center, movie theater, or restaurant.
Do Volunteer:
The holidays are a time of giving and helping those who are need, and you won’t regret your time volunteering. Not only are you putting a smile on others, but it’s hard not to smile yourself knowing your helping those who need it most.
Don’t show up empty-handed:
Remember all that baking you were supposed to indulge in? This is where it comes in handy. Don’t go to any parties this break without bringing something. Show some appreciation and bring cookies, eggnog, or whatever fits the occasion.
Do enjoy your time off:
This is the most important. The holidays are always busy, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself. Enjoy the time with friends and family you don’t otherwise see while you are at school. These are the times you will share with your kids or grandkids some day.
