Spring into break with a plan
It’s finally here! Spring break is in sight, at last, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve been anxiously awaiting the upcoming days of freedom for some time. With the weather warming up, a break sounds like the perfect thing right about now. But remember, the week will go by quickly, and before we know it, it will be time to finish up the school year. Make sure you don’t waste your time off by going in with a plan. If you need help, don’t worry – I’ve got an idea for every day – so that we can all come back to school ready to tackle the last 6 weeks!
Friday: The first night! This is the perfect time to relax, unwind and get to bed early. After a busy school week (and first part of the semester, really), there’s no better time to give yourself the night off. Try to hit the hay earlier than usual so that you’ll wake up feeling well-rested…without having to sleep until noon.
Saturday: Let the (mild) cleaning begin! We all know about good old spring cleaning – why not start now? Grab that backpack and clean it out! I tend to throw bananas in one of the small pouches…and then I forget about them. Definitely don’t want to leave that there the entire week – yuck! Go through your bag, get rid of old papers and gross snacks, and if you’re really feeling productive, reorganize your papers. Tip: once it’s empty, wash your backpack. You’ll be amazed at the difference.
Sunday: Hopefully cleaning your backpack out got you in the spring cleaning mood. Why not go right ahead and clean out your wardrobe and drawers – or just your entire room? This is a huge and daunting task for me this year…it means getting rid of a whole lot of things, and making space for me to move back home post-graduation. Make sure you aren’t holding on to things you don’t need or want. A clean, de-cluttered room makes for such a calm mind.
Monday: When my room is clean, I want to enjoy it. This means it’s the perfect day to grab a book or turn on Netflix and relax. Besides, you’ve been working so hard cleaning that it’s about time you took a true break. But remember –keep your room clean!
Tuesday: After a day of relaxation, it’s time to get up and out there, especially if the weather is nice. Run errands, exercise, enjoy yourself outside-do what makes you happy! It is your break, after all. If there is anything you think you may need to survive the rest of the school year, today’s a great day to take care of that. Need rain boots so that you don’t have to jump over the puddles? Get some! Trust me – one of the best purchases I’ve ever made.
Wednesday: I know it’s break time, but have you thought about your next semester of courses? I know I haven’t…if you catch my drift! But if you aren’t like me and you will not be graduating this spring, take this time to figure out your class schedule. Time tickets for course scheduling are now available, and it’s important to have multiple plans for when it is your time to pick classes. If you are graduating, spend the day applying for jobs, fixing your résumé or looking up interview tips.
Thursday: Break is winding down, and although there are quite a few days left, you’re probably now thinking about summertime and everything you want to do. Spend some time today planning a fun weekend away or a vacation for the upcoming months. It’s so nice to get away and travel, and if you don’t plan it now, summer will sneak up on you, and you won’t have anything set.
Friday: If you haven’t already, today would be a great day to go out on the town. To me, this would be a day to go enjoy lunch or dinner at a restaurant or head to my favorite movie theater. Spend the day doing something you don’t have time to do as often as you’d like (if ever) during the school week.
Saturday: Relax! Today is a great day to do whatever it is that helps you prepare for returning to school and obligations. Paint your nails, get a massage, get a haircut. Unwind and destress. It will be ok!
Sunday: Sadly, we have reached the end of break. Today, get ready for the upcoming week. Pack up your backpack, make sure you’ve taken care of all of your homework and get a good night’s sleep! Most importantly, think about where you are in your education and UIC experience and whether or not you are satisfied. If you want more out of your experience, think about what you can do to enjoy yourself. Make sure you are staying on track.
And there you have it. Don’t let your short but sweet spring break slip away from you – make each day meaningful. This will leave you feeling recharged when the week is through and it’s time to head back to school. Enjoy your break!
Holly Brenza is a senior majoring in English and minoring in communications and management. In her spare time, Holly enjoys playing with her puppy, Bear, and watching the Blackhawks and White Sox, reading and trying out new recipes. After graduation, she hopes to work in public relations.
