3 Ways to Stay Productive During Winter Break

Link to the original article on Walker’s Legacy

December 5, 2016

After finals week has ended symbolizing the end of the fall semester, college students everywhere give a collective sigh of relief as they prepare to relax for the next month. There’s no more intense studying, pulling all-nighters, or cramming in last-minute visits to office hours. While it seems like a well-deserved break from the pressures of the first semester, winter break is the perfect time to prepare for the spring.

Below are three ways to stay productive during winter break:

1. Plan your upcoming semester
   Most, if not all, colleges and universities let students register for classes the semester before. Take a look at your schedule and try to find your professors’ syllabi as well as any required reading. Take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the classes you’re taking so you know what you’re getting into before classes resume. Also get an idea of what extracurriculars you might want to take on for the spring semester and start thinking about internships or scholarships you may want to apply for. Thinking about these things ahead of time will make deadlines seems less daunting and give you more time to put your applications together.

2. Update your resume
   If you were busy throughout the fall semester, you may have done some things (e.g., extracurriculars, internships, work in classes) that you haven’t had time to add to your resume. During winter break, taking the time to update your resume or portfolio will make applications for the spring that much easier.

3. Work

   A lot of college students take winter break as an opportunity to get back to their jobs, which is an easy way to make some money in between semesters. You can also look for small tasks such as babysitting or cleaning to make some extra cash. Volunteering in your community is another great way to get in the holiday spirit while also building your resume.