It’s so close we can taste it.
As final exams loom, something else does, too: freedom. Because once this nightmare of a semester finally comes to an end, Winter Break will begin. Two glorious months, full of promise, without deadlines or Zoom classes or never-ending assignments.
But as wonderful as those two months of uninterrupted leisure time sound, we’ll admit we’re worried about one thing: boredom. What will we do with ourselves for that long? Who will we become once the crushing weight of academic expectations is lifted from our shoulders? How will we make it through without disrupting the delicate peace we’ve brokered with our families and our roommates?
Netflix and sleep won't last us forever. So, we’ve decided to be proactive. If you, too, are wondering how to pass the time, don’t worry! We have some ideas.
Try your hand at visual arts.
Whether it’s painting, knitting or investing in an adult (or children’s) coloring book, it’s never a bad idea to channel your inner artist. Making visual art has been linked to reducing stress and anxiety — which we probably all need right now — and increasing cognitive function. Not to mention, it’s something you can do with (or without) other people. Maybe try hosting a COVID-19-friendly Bob Ross Zoom party with your friends! The possibilities are endless.
Read a book.
One thing we never seem to have enough time to do is read. Let Winter Break be your chance to finally catch up on all the books you’ve been dying to read, but haven’t had the chance to. Try purchasing a book from an independent bookstore (not Amazon!), or borrowing an e-book from your local library. Most libraries have thousands of virtual titles you can borrow free of charge — all you need is a library card.
