After a long 7 weeks of winter break, UD students know better than anyone the urge to get back to campus after being away for an extended period of time. Even though we’re all ready for warm weather, St. Patrick’s Day, and spring styles, it can sometimes be a struggle to get back into the academic part of college. Here are 5 ways to have a productive spring semester, but still have the time of your life. –Written by Katie Alteri
1. Go school supply shopping – Yes, that may bring back memories of being in 5th grade, but buying fresh new supplies can help you get organized in your classes. A Lily Pulitzer planner, colored pens, and bright UD notebook (Barnes and Noble on Main Street has a myriad of Blue Hen themed supplies) can give you the necessary motivation to go to class (or at least tolerate it).
2. Get spring break ready – We know you’re still recovering from home cooking, holiday parties, and boredom munchies, but with spring break around the corner, hitting the gym regularly is a must. To keep yourself accountable, attend weekly work out classes at the Little Bob – it will feel like a part of your schedule that you can’t skip. If going to the gym alone seems dull, ask a friend to join and be a work out buddy for the semester. When one of you contemplates skipping, the other can serve as a motivator.
3. Treat yourself – Although having a rocking, toned beach body for spring break is necessary, every once in a while, you have to make a trip to Newark Deli & Bagel to reward yourself. People may say ‘nothing tastes as good as skinny feels’ – but that is not true when you’re stuffing your face with a bacon, egg, and cheese from UD’s beloved NDB, indulging in a decadent PB&J smoothie from Main Squeeze, or enjoying a Mexican meal at Santa Fe.
4. Start figuring out summer plans – Whether you’re trying to land an impressive internship (or full-time job, for the poor seniors who only have a few months left on campus), or want to spend summer break relaxing, lining up summer plans will be well worth it. Filling out a few applications each week, and scheduling travel arrangements or other fun activities (beach trips, music festivals, etc.) will give you something to look forward to when cramming for exams or sitting through a dull class. Firefly Festival in Dover is only an hour from campus and will features acts like Outkast, Imagine Dragons, and The Lumineers, and Dewey Beach always offers a wild college scene, so if you start missing campus, you won’t be too far away.
5. Try something new – Make spring semester memorable by joining a new RSO, rushing a Greek life organization, or picking up a new skill or hobby. Getting involved or accomplishing a goal will give you something you enjoy to focus on and get excited about throughout the semester. Plus, it never hurts to know more people on campus, or have another activity to add to your resume.