Now, I don't know if it's the same for everyone, but whenever I'm home on winter break I sink into a kind of half-alive half-asleep state as I go through my days. That's probably because I go to sleep way past two in the morning and don't wake up until at least 11:00 a.m. Although this is a great relief after the stress of finals week, sometimes this state of doing nothing can drive one to insanity. Plus, it doesn't help that I find myself so bored at home. So here's my advice for being productive and healthy over break.

1. Could you be doing that at the gym? When I'm bored during break, I tend to read a lot of books or watch a lot of TV. While that's great and all, you could do both of those things at the gym, and get some physical exercise in while your brain relaxes.

2. Start thinking about what you're gonna do over the summer. If you're like me, you don't like to think about the future, especially when it comes to getting a summer job or internship. Summer seems like a long time away, but it's closer than you'd think. Many job opportunities are coming out now, during winter break, and you would definitely benefit from starting to look at these opportunities now.

3. Get a winter break job. Last year, I dawdled and didn't really get much done. This year, my parents forced me to get a job, and that definitely made me feel like I was being more productive than last year. I worked at the Macy's in my mall, and boy, was it a lot of work. It wasn't particularly challenging, but it was definitely draining. Plus, it gives you some extra money for next semester.

4. Hang out with friends! I'm more introverted than extroverted, and when I'm at home I become even more of an introvert sometimes. I'd rather just stay in more times than not and watch TV or read. But sometimes being alone for too long takes a toll on your mental health. Make sure to make time to see your friends from home! It'll make you feel better and definitely improve your mood.

5. Spend time with family. They haven't seen you in months! Show them you care by hanging out with them. You'll definitely brighten their weeks.

6. Explore things to do around your hometown. For me, I always feel like there's nothing to do when I come home. I don't live in a city, so the only thing I usually do when I get home is go shopping at the mall or hang out at my friends' houses. But there's definitely tons more to do outside of your boring town. Go to a nearby city or a different mall. Go hiking or camping with your friends.

7. Take a trip. College is great because you have weeks of break, unlike when you enter the working world. You can spend this time taking a vacation with your family or friends!

8. Volunteer. The holidays are a great time to give back!