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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at BU chapter.

So, what exactly should you do with all this “free” time during quarantine, if not watch your favorite show? I know that it’s so much easier to disappear into Gilmore Girls and forget about all your worries and responsibilities, but sometimes, getting stuck in this cycle of binging and re-binging shows can do more harm than good for your mental health. While half of the world is on lockdown, try to use this time to expand your education and participate in active rather than passive activities. These are five websites that will give you amazing resources to learn more about yourself and your hobbies! 

Master Class

This is an app in which you can choose from 10 categories, everything from Film & TV to Science & Technology, and watch or listen to professionals in that field share their knowledge and tips for success. I’m currently watching Doris Kearns Goodwin, who teaches U.S. Presidential History and Leadership, and I loved it so far! The videos are short, yet very informative. This app is a perfect mix of a podcast and a mini Ted Talk. 

Understanding Fashion

From business to culture, this is a free online fashion course on Future Learn which recently opened up! I found out about it from Twitter, and I highly recommend signing up. First, as mentioned, it’s free. Second, why wouldn’t you want to learn more about fashion from one of the most prestigious universities in the world? 

Linkedin Learning

I used to think that LinkedIn was only for networking, but I recently discovered this amazing extension of the website. With an impressive list of topics to choose from, you can use this site to learn a new topic you’ve been interested in for a while or watch a video to test your skills.

Headway

Read or listen daily to that book you’ve been wanting to read but just haven’t “had the time” for (aka you’ve just been putting it off). The best part is–you can set daily goals, anywhere from 30 to 15 minutes, and even if you listen to a book for 15 minutes while making your coffee in the morning, you have already accomplished something! 

Podcasts

Number five is more of a listen than a watch, but I seriously recommend adding podcasts into your routine. They’re a pioneer on our phones, but let’s be honest, how often do you listen to them instead of heading to music or Spotify immediately? I’m quite guilty of that. I love music, but once again, listening to constant repetitive verse no matter how catchy or good it is it won’t push you farther in your career.  

I hope I was able to give you some ideas of what to do instead of watching Netflix 24/7. But in case you do decide to venture out on the “I’m just going to watch one episode” path, I recommend the series The Crown. Just remember to stay positive and proactive about your future.

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Writers of the Boston University chapter of Her Campus.