Midterms are just around the corner and with that, spring break is quickly approaching. Unfortunately, attending an out-of-state college and home being my vacation destination now, I cannot say I will be one to lay on a beach in a tropical place with a pina colada in hand. But what’s to say this means I won’t be having just as much relaxation time? Every break seems to have days where there is nothing to do, and with Emerson’s spring break seeming to align with none of my friends’ or sister’s spring breaks, I have decided to come up with ways to entertain myself while being home alone for the week, and I highly recommend you try some of them out!
- Get a manicure.
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For some reason that I can’t explain, getting a manicure always instantly makes me feel like I am getting ready for a vacation. There is nothing better than a fresh manicure, and taking some time out of your day for a trip to the nail salon is perfect for the relaxation we rarely get as college students.
- Get a haircut.
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Haircuts can be expensive and always having homework, a job, or club meetings to go to, it can seem impossible to make time for a haircut. Plus, it’s hard for me to think about trying out a new hair salon when I know all of the people at my hair salon back home. And you never know if that hair stylist is going to be the one to take off 4 inches of your hair when you ask for a trim, so spring break is the perfect time to get a fresh cut and come back from break with healthy looking hair!
- Shop.
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No matter how many clothes I buy, I often find myself browsing through Forever 21 or Urban Outfitters online in my free time. Being at home for a week with a ton of free time on my hands, the first thing that pops into my head is a trip to the mall to walk around and look at clothes. While some find it to be a hassle trying on clothes or walking around the mall, if I am in a shopping mood, nothing can take up an entire day more than a shopping day, and spring break is the perfect time for just that!
- See a movie.
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While Discount Tuesdays at AMC are the best, I know that it can be hard to see a movie during the school week, especially with evening classes. Being at home during break is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of that free Tuesday and catch a movie—with some popcorn of course.
- Take a trip into the city.
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In my opinion, one of the best things about Emerson is the location. Being right in the city, there is always somewhere to go, so it makes sense that when returning home, it can feel like there is nothing to do. However, every city is different, so taking the time to explore the city closest to you can be a good way to keep you busy for a day during spring break. This spring break, I plan on taking the train downtown and exploring all Chicago has to offer, including the things that Boston doesn’t have.
- Catch up with family.
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While away from home, I find that my homesickness stems from missing the people close to me, including my mom, sister, friends, and extended family. Being home is the perfect time to catch up with the people close to you.
- Hit up all the restaurants in town.
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No matter where you go to college, chances are your college dining hall won’t come close to replicating your favorite hometown food. Especially when it comes to Chicago pizza, I have found myself immediately hitting up Giordano’s for some deep dish pizza. Spring break is the perfect time to take advantage of all of the food places near you! Grab a friend or family member and get a bite to eat at your favorite local restaurant!
- Take a workout class.
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With such limited time to hit up all of the local food near me, I have found it most challenging to eat healthy during the breaks, and I don’t think it’s humanly possible for me to turn down a juicy Italian beef sandwich from the local fast food place while at home. However, that doesn’t mean a good workout can’t put you right back on track! One of my favorite things to do at home is supporting the local fitness businesses and taking workout classes! Spring break is the perfect time to take a workout class and find a new form of exercise that’s not going to the gym.
- Drive around.
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I have to say that one of the things I miss most while at school has to be driving. There’s so much freedom and independence that comes with it and one of my all-time favorite things to do is drive around with the windows down, listening to music. Being at home, this is the one thing I always make sure to take advantage of.
- Prepare a meal.
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Being at college, I have realized how much I love making food. While it’s still possible to make cookies from the Nestle Toll House premade dough or pancakes with the Aunt Jemima “Just Add Water” mix in the dorms, being able to make meals with fresh produce and all of the necessary baking supplies at my disposal in my kitchen at home is something that can be a fun thing to do alone while at home over break!