Winter break provides a much needed time to rest after Fall semester, allowing students to reconnect with their lives away from campus. However, with this period of rest and recharging, it’s easy to lose the good habits that you developed during the semester– such as sleeping on a regular schedule, getting outside everyday, maintaining good study habits, and staying active.
Not keeping up with these habits can make the start of Spring semester difficult. This is especially true for student staff members that work in Housing. Student staff members often don’t get the same slow ramp up that non-student workers get. Not only do student workers need to arrive on campus earlier, they will also often need to undergo refresher training, as well as setting up their areas for the start of the semester.
In order to alleviate some of the struggle that occurs at the start of the semester, here are some ways to maintain momentum over winter break!
Create a list of the things you will need to get done when you return to campus.
This is a great task to start at the beginning of the break, while the previous semester is still fresh. Continue to review that list over break, updating it as you get new information about courses and requirements.
Take the time to rest.
Rest is important! However, make sure that you are maintaining a healthy sleep schedule and not spending too much time in bed, or staying up too late throughout the break. While you don’t need to maintain the exact schedule you have during the break, maintaining a regular sleep schedule will make the transition into the spring much easier overall.
Engage in self care, and reconnect with your life outside of school.
Self care is not one size fits all, and it’s best to do what you know works well for you. If you’re unsure of where to start, remember to stay active and to ensure that you are eating well. Additionally, taking the time to connect with your friends and family, as well as spending time on your hobbies can be good ways to recharge.
The beginning of Spring semester can be difficult. However, maintaining momentum over Winter break can make the transition much easier, and help make your Spring semester extra productive!
