Whether you’re a freshman, a senior, a transfer student, or anything in between, moving back after a long break can be tough. When I returned from my first winter break, I realized that there are a lot of basic struggles and readjustments to get yourself back into the routine of dorm life.
1. Readjusting to the food.
As I swiped my card and took my first steps into the dining hall, a familiar feeling creeped into me. It is the feeling of switching back to small portions, and facing the chance of having food that doesn’t sit well. Of course, I knew there could be something new that tastes great, but usually it is just a special and I end up eating the same safe meal every other day. Then, the meal is followed by free ice cream from the freezer, or microwaved Velveeta in my dorm.
2. Going to the gym.
I had a great gym schedule before break, but when I went home my exercise schedule was delayed. Gym memberships were no longer free when I was home, so I ended up joining an inexpensive kickboxing class to stay in shape. Then, when I returned, I had to get myself back into going to the gym and getting into the same routines I was used to on set days in addition to going to fitness classes.
3. Attending classes.
Winter break can be very fun and relaxing, and a good two month break from college. On the other hand, it is a pause from schoolwork, and that can make it hard to retain certain skills. When I moved back in, and realized classes started the next day, I became slightly anxious. My brain was still on vacation and I wasn’t sure how well it would adjust to reading, writing, and waking up early. The first week of classes can be tough when you’re trying to get back on schedule.
4. Sleeping.
Moving from your bed at home to your bed in your dorm is always a struggle. I’ve never found it easy to sleep for the first few nights in my bed at school. The bed always seems slightly uncomfortable, and there is noise. Even if you don’t have partying neighbors, there are always people moving around — and if you live across from the bathroom, like me, you hear people moving in and out of it during all hours of the night. Then, above all, it can get very hot and dry in the dorm rooms from the radiators at night. I end up leaving a window open, and then I fight between being too hot and too cold for most of the night.
5. Using the bathrooms.
It took me a few days to get used to using an ID to get into the bathroom when I needed to use it. I ended up leaving it behind in my room a number times before it stuck. After getting used to the ID, my focus turned to the shower. I needed to be sure to wear flip flops and have my caddie ready to go, as well as be sure that there was an open stall. Then, there are always those awkward moments when I would run into someone in just a towel in the bathroom or the hallway.
