In a normal year, spring break is typically when many college students leave campus for some sun and sand. But, you guessed it, this year will likely be a bit different with most travel still off the table. But that doesn’t mean hardworking college kids shouldn’t get a break. Whether spending the week bonding with family, getting a jump on applying for internships or settling in for some non-required reading, we’ve got some great ideas for making the most of spring break.
5 Things to Do on Spring Break
For college students who have spent the time since holiday break hitting the books (either on campus or virtually), a well-deserved vacation is in order. Here are a few ideas to try to relax and recharge.
Reconnect with hometown friends
If you’re spending your spring break back at home, spend some time with friends you haven’t seen in a while. Go for a masked-up walk in the park. Have a Zoom happy hour. Watch a movie together virtually with the Netflix Party feature. Whatever you choose, it’s always good to see old friends.
Spend time with Mom and Dad
Sure, you may have been attending college from your bedroom this semester, but it’s still nice to focus on family without the distraction of classes. They’ll be so happy to spend time with you, it’s likely they’ll let you pick the activity.
Catch up on non-required reading
You’ve hit the books all semester, and maybe you haven’t had time to delve into books on your personal reading list. Now’s your chance. If the weather is nice, grab a towel and pretend like you’re at the beach with your book. (See pg. 117 for some recommended reading.)
Sample some new cuisine
Dorm food is not known for setting the culinary world on fire. If you’ve been eating on campus all semester, being at home means it’s your chance to dine on fancy fare. Order takeout from a restaurant that’s opened since you’ve been away or return to whatever favorite you’ve been missing. Either way, you get a satisfying meal—and you support your hometown’s restaurant scene.
Relax!
Spring break is, after all, a vacation. Sleep in; stay in your pajamas; sit in the sun. Whatever it is that brings you some peace before you head into the rest of the semester, we say go for it!
Get a Jump on the Job Search
Whether you’re a freshman or almost through with your college career, the downtime of spring break is a great time to focus on the future. Here, a few tips to finding an internship or job.
Make sure your resume is updated: Even early in your career, a strong, error-free resume posted on LinkedIn and other career-focused social sites is important for building your professional network. Include all jobs, internships and other professional accomplishments, as well as endorsements from people you’ve worked with to create a full picture of your professional life.
Set up informational meetings: Even though meeting for coffee isn’t necessarily feasible right now, look at the silver lining: With Zoom meetings, you’re not limited by geography. Know someone in a field you’re interested in who lives far away? Write them a concise, polite email asking for 10 minutes of their time. You never know—you may find yourself talking shop with professionals in your chosen career field from all over the country.
Apply, apply, apply: Without schoolwork to focus on during spring break, take this time to apply for many jobs and internships. Casting a wide net ups your chances to get some interview opportunities. Remember, take the time to tailor cover letters to show that you’re really interested.
Dive deep into your field of interest: Still not sure what you want to be when you grow up? The open hours of spring break are a great time to delve into different career fields. Read books and articles by professionals in careers you find interesting. Search job descriptions on job boards to see if the work fits your personality. Set up the aforementioned informational meetings with experts.
Spring Break Packing List
You may not be heading to a beach, but there are still some essentials you’ll need for a spring break closer to home.
A big stack of books and magazines: If you love to read, this is the time to binge on your favorite books and think pieces you meant to read all semester.
Spa day supplies: Skip the all-nighters during spring break and catch up on sleep. Make sure you get some quality ZZZs by first treating yourself to an at-home facial or warm bubble bath.
Sunscreen: Just because you’re not on an official vacation doesn’t mean you can’t spend some quality time outside. Whether sunning in your backyard or going for a hike on a local trail, make sure to protect yourself from UV rays.
Your favorite coffee/snack: Treat yourself to a few indulgences, whether it’s a specialty coffee you can get close to home or a homemade snack. Make sure you have it on hand during your downtime.
Brand-new loungewear: We’re not telling you to stay in your PJs all day. We’re also not telling you not to. Skip the ratty college T-shirt you’ve been wearing since you got your acceptance letter and order up some loungewear that looks good for those Zoom get togethers you’ll be having during spring break.
A great attitude: Sure, spring break 2021 is likely going to look different, but like every experience of the past 12 months, try and rise to the challenge. Whether you’re going to spend the entire time relaxing or kicking your job search into high gear, take the time you have over spring break and show it who’s boss!
Book Binge!
Missing that trip to Cancun or a flight overseas for a spring break study abroad? Fingers crossed for next year, but in the meantime, give these books, which all feature young adults as the protagonist, a try.
Wanderlove
by Kirsten Hubbard
The Distance from A to Z
by Natalie Blitt
Anna and the French Kiss
by Stephanie Perkins
Wanderlost
by Jen Malone
Diary of a Tokyo Teen: A Japanese-American Girl Travels to the Land of Trendy Fashion, High-Tech Toilets and Maid Cafes
by Christine Mari Inzer
This story originally ran in our March issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
