Winter Break – What to DO!
As the fall semester ends and reviews / finals are almost do, what will you do (or accomplish) over the break before the spring semester. While it may be tempting to full catch up on all of the “sleep” that you lost during the semester, but it is short-lived; plus, you will probably not receive “toys” that will keep you entertained.
Enjoy the Holidays: Most importantly, the winter break is all about spending time with family and friends, some of whom you have not seen since the summer. Take all the time you need to enjoy the holidays at home with your loved ones. From my college days, I can remember rushing back only to hit the mall to buy gifts for everyone.
Learn a new software: As you will have more free time during the winter break, use this time to practice your digital skills; take the time to further develop your skills on a particular software or branch out to a brand new one. Check to see if your university has a site license with Lynda.com – a leading online learning platform that helps anyone learn business, software, technology and creative skills to achieve personal and professional goals. (it is NOT free).
Read a Book for Fun: Aside from family time, take time for your SELF; do something that you want to do — one common activity is the read for FUN. Visit your local library, check out a book, and ENJOY.
Look at Architecture and Sketch: Regardless of your academic year, go SEE architecture and SKETCH. If you might be traveling, visit buildings that you have never seen before. Even if you are NOT traveling, visit buildings you know but SEE them in a new way — with the new knowledge you learned over the past semester.
Develop Career Search Tools: per one of my last entries – A.R.C.H.I.T.E.C.T, take the time to work on your resume, cover letter, interviewing skills, and portfolio. At minimum, document your student work from the past semester for future use. No matter if you are a first year student or about to graduate, you want your materials ready for the spring career events in preparation for summer positions.
There are many other activities to pursue but whatever you choose to do, make it a productive break and do not just binge watch the latest on Netflix.
Happy Holidays!