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Finals are almost over and I’m excited for you to get four weeks off for a well-deserved break. This is a time to rest, recharge and do things you enjoy before getting ready for the spring semester. Here are a few ways to make the most of your winter break.

Navigate the transition

When you’re used to living on your own and being more independent, sometimes it can be a big transition when you go home for some time. If you can, communicate with family members about any expectations or plans over winter break. This could include helping with chores or other responsibilities while you’re at home, or letting family members know in advance when you have plans with friends.

Sometimes there may be a need to have important conversations with family members. Whatever the topic may be, review these tips to help make the most of a tough conversation.

Do something you enjoy

For many of us, winter break is a time to slow down and rest after a busy semester. In addition to rest, I encourage you to do things that you enjoy and don’t always have time for during the semester. Maybe that’s spending more time with family and friends, catching up on books or TV shows, baking, getting outside or doing craft projects. You could also take the opportunity to work some extra hours at your part-time job or work on a passion project. Whatever you choose to do, be intentional with how you spend your time.

Get ready for spring

After you’ve taken time to rest and recharge, start to reflect on your fall semester. First, celebrate your accomplishments and consider what went well for you—both in and out of the classroom. Maybe you received an excellent test score on a subject you found challenging to learn. Or perhaps you tried something new and stepped outside of your comfort zone. Maybe you made a few new friends or found a new stress-relieving hobby you enjoy. I encourage you to take pride in your accomplishments, whatever they may be.

As you reflect on your experiences, I also encourage you to think about what was challenging or what could have been better. What lessons can you learn from those experiences? Additionally, begin to think about some goals for your spring semester. Maybe that’s figuring out a new study schedule to avoid procrastination, finding new ways to get involved on campus or landing a summer job or internship. You can use time over winter break to start putting together a plan to help you achieve your goals and get in the right mindset.

Buffs, I hope you have a great winter break and I’ll see you in the new year!

Devin Cramer
Acting Dean of Students and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs