It’s almost spring break, and you know what that means: it’s time to throw together some semblance of a plan so you don’t waste your break time. Most of us can agree our budgets are pretty low, and because of that, we have to plan accordingly. Maybe we won’t fly to Mexico or hang out in a big city, but we can still have fun on a budget!
First, think of your hometown if you’re headed back home. What’s something you missed when you thought of home? Maybe it’s the weird restaurant downtown or the nature park you walked your dog in. After thinking of all the things about home that make you happy, come up with a list and plan out what you can still do while you’re there.
Second, reach out now to friends from home to make plans. You haven’t seen them in a while, so make some cool plans. I’m a Minnesotan, so I plan to take some friends to the Mall of America while I’m home. What plans sound fun to you and your friends?
Third, explore things you haven’t in the area you live. Maybe there’s an old mall in the next town over. Or you’ve never tried sushi and a place opened up in town. Spring break is a good time to try new things. Even if you’re on campus, there are lots of ways to spend the break in a fun way. Netflix marathons are great, and you can make popcorn and invite people over. Or you can read a book you’ve been saving since you’re so busy with classwork. Buy yourself a game or a movie to watch. Also, if you’re headed home, spend time with family. They haven’t seen you in a while, and they miss you! Take some time with each of them to chat about college, update them about your classes and show them pictures of your friends. Parents love seeing pictures of you at college. I know from experience; my sister has an hour-long slideshow each break and my parents love seeing what she’s been up to all year.
Lastly, choose to do what makes you happy. I know there’s pressure to spend break “correctly” or to not “waste” the break but it’s ultimately up to you how you spend it. There’s no wrong way to spend spring break as long as you’re happy and you feel like you’re having fun.
Carrie King
Contributing Writer