Brace yourself: winter (break) is coming

By MATT KLINE

As the semester comes to an end, many of us have already started making plans for winter break. Many of these plans range from catching up with friends from back home to working as many hours as possible to return for the spring semester with a large sum of money. But how should students really be spending their winter breaks?

As a college student, your end goal after four years of school is to find a job. One of the best ways to do this is by improving your resumes over break. You can also contact local businesses in your field of interest and spend time volunteering while you are home.

Some people even believe hitting the books over break will help you get ahead, or at least stay on track in your intended major. By making the most of your time and getting ahead, you give yourself an edge over others competing against you and applying for the same jobs as you are. Getting ahead is a great idea for your free time over break, but it may be a good idea to make sure you’re doing something that won’t burn you out before you get back to college.

After your numerous late-night McDonald’s runs during the fall semester, you might be a bit disappointed when looking at your bank account. Break is a good time to work as much as you can and not be worried about getting behind on schoolwork. Many retailers  are hiring this time of year to help combat the mass influx of Christmas shoppers to their stores. This time-honored holiday tradition works to students’ advantage. It also gives the opportunity to make money to do our own shopping. But make sure to save some of that hard earned cash for spring semester’s books and other expenses that will be coming your way.

Although getting ahead on your future is a big help, it is your break and some may intend on using it as just that. The advantage of using the break to take a breather from school is that it will help many refresh their focus and return ready to learn in the spring.

Many do this because they have burnt themselves out working day and night on schoolwork, especially leading up to finals. Taking this time as a break even if you aren’t burnt out from working hard can still be an advantage, though. There are numerous things that could be done back at home to fill your time, like reconnecting with friends. If you work through break, you may miss the opportunities to see some of your friend with opposing schedules.