College students often say they suffer from a sense of boredom when coming home for the holidays. I remember being in high school and having endless invitations from friends who were home from college, telling me they were bored and asking if I wanted to go to the movies or the mall or if they could come over.
I used to think, “How are you bored? You have a whole month with absolutely no responsibilities. You can do whatever you want to!” But now I'm on my first college winter break, and I understand what they were talking about. So, for those of you currently on break or thinking about future breaks, here are some suggestions for making the most of your time off.
Find a new hobby
If you’re like me, you have a lot of interests that you’ve never found the time to try. But now that I don’t have homework or tests, for example, I have time to learn how to paint. Find your next hobby and give it a try!
Finish an old project
Did you never finish cleaning out your closet? Did you only finish half the book on that shelf? Did you never fully complete that puzzle? This break, I'm finishing drawing a portrait that I began before the semester started but got too busy to finish. Spend some time completing old projects, and earn yourself a sense of accomplishment.
Catch up on TV shows and movies
This may be a given, but winter break is perfect for getting caught up on those movies and episodes you never had the time to finish. If you’re like me, you may spend countless hours watching Gilmore Girls or festive holiday classics. Get your Netflix fix before the semester begins, and finish the “seasons” strong!
Visit your favorite hometown hangouts
Chances are, after a semester of being away at college, you'll miss certain things about your hometown. Use your time over break to revisit your go-to spots. Over my break, I’ve spent time visiting my favorite zoo and local restaurants. It can be enjoyable to discover new places around your town, too. Whether it’s a recent addition or you have just never taken the time to visit, this is your opportunity.
Visit with friends and family
Haven’t seen your friends or family much over the course of the semester? Use your time over break to tell people about your new life and discover what's been going on in their lives. I just went to my community's local Christmas play, and it was great catching up with old friends, teachers and community members. I quickly learned that things in the area had changed; likewise, things had changed with me. Use these opportunities as a chance to reconnect.
MACY JORDAHL
is a first-year UNC student majoring in Special Education. She's part of Best Buddies, the Student Council for Exceptional Children, and residence hall life. If you ever need a portrait drawn, she can do that, too!
