Winter break is undoubtedly the most anticipated part of the fall semester for any college student.  It’s a time to relax from the stress of classes and a much needed break after final exams.  Here are some essential tips to surviving and thriving over this winter break!

Winter Break Survival Guide – College Suitcase

  1. Hang out with your old hometown friends. Winter break is the perfect time to catch up with your pals from high school and swap stories from the past semester.  Hit up a local brunch spot or spend a cozy evening in watching Christmas movies together!
  2. Buy textbooks and prepare for the upcoming semester. School is probably the last thing you’ll want to think about over the break, but it’s a great opportunity to use some of the downtime to get yourself organized.  Get a fresh planner and new notebooks to fill with all your tests and assignments.  You will thank yourself when the spring semester starts!
  3. Eat a home-cooked meal. After months of boring dining hall food, a home-cooked meal will taste like a five-star dinner.  Offer to help your mom in the kitchen and stock up on essentials at the grocery store to take back to school with you!
  4. Binge a new Netflix show. Of course the winter break would not be complete without a good old Netflix marathon.  Whether you settle in with new show or rewatch an old favorite, relax and hit that next episode button with no shame (yes, Netflix…  I am still watching).
  5. Partake in your favorite holiday traditions. Every December, my family attends Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas, and it has become one of my favorite holiday traditions.  Baking cookies, drinking hot chocolate, and driving around looking at Christmas lights are more traditions that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit!
  6. Shop all the sales. Winter break also means end-of-the-year sales!  Hit up your favorite local stores and snag the perfect gifts for your friends and family without breaking the bank.
  7. Spend time with your family. The holiday season is all about spending time with your loved ones, so stay in for a family game night or take your siblings to a matinee movie.  These will be the memories you will cherish for years to come!
  8. Give back to your community. It’s important to recognize all our blessings and to spread the love by giving back.  Participate in a local canned food drive or serve a meal at a food kitchen.  Serving others will not only make someone else’s day, but it will make you feel good too!