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

As Thanksgiving approaches, most students are looking forward to a break filled with family, friends, and feasts. However, with end-of-semester projects and final exams close on the horizon, finding a balance between productivity and holiday festivities is crucial. Here are some tips for staying productive during Thanksgiving break while still having some well-deserved relaxation.

  1. Take some time to rest!

After a busy six weeks between fall break and Thanksgiving break, you deserve some time to rest and unplug from school! Take the first weekend of the break to relax and detach completely from your assignments. This will help you avoid burnout and approach your assignments with a fresh set of eyes. Use this time to connect with family and friends, read a fun book, or engage in other activities that will help you destress. 

  1. Make a list 

To avoid getting disorganized and overwhelmed, make a comprehensive list of the tasks you need to accomplish over break. Whether it’s completing assignments, studying for upcoming exams, or advancing personal projects, having a clear sense of purpose will help you stay focused and organized. 

  1. Prioritize important tasks

The best way to balance work and relaxation is to prioritize your most important assignments. Identify the most pressing tasks and prioritize them based on deadlines and importance. This strategy allows you to allocate your time and energy to the tasks with the greatest impact. Prioritization will also help keep your stress levels low throughout the week, as you will not have to worry about the deadlines drawing closer. 

  1. Take breaks

It is important to prioritize your mental health and well-being over break, especially considering the upcoming stressful final exam period. Be sure to take breaks whenever you need them, and don’t feel guilty about stepping away from your work to spend time with friends and family– after all, that’s what Thanksgiving is all about!

The key to staying productive over break is striking a balance that allows you to achieve your goals without sacrificing the spirit of Thanksgiving. Be sure to spend some quality time with the people you love, while also gearing up for the end of the semester!

Sarah Goggin

Colgate '26

Sarah Goggin is a sophomore at Colgate University double majoring in Psychology and Classical Studies. Her interests include writing, music, reading, and fashion.