College life can feel repetitive and overwhelming, especially when we hit that midsemester slump. With FSU’s next home game not until Oct. 31, it feels like there’s no better time for a quick Tallahassee side quest that can be squeezed between studying for midterms and running errands over the weekend. These mini adventures are fun, half-day commitments that can lift your spirits after a long week, customized to your major!
Biology: Volunteering with FSU’s Animal Society
You don’t have to be on the pre-veterinary track to get involved with the Animal Society at FSU. They have several events open to non-members, most of which involve hands-on interaction with the sweetest animals. Spending a morning volunteering with the Animal Society or local farms is a rewarding way to add excitement to your weekend!
Art: Painting Ceramics
If you’re looking to unwind with a cute craft, I suggest painting pottery! My favorite thing to do is make matching pieces with my roommates. FSU Paint-A-Pot is one option, conveniently located on campus inside the Askew Student Life Center (ASLC) and the Student Union.
Another option is Color Me Mine in Miracle Plaza, which has even more variety when it comes to picking your piece. With the holidays approaching, making a cute Halloween- or Christmas-themed dish is a quick and easy way to combine decorating and relaxing.
Environmental Science: Visiting the Maclay Gardens
When the temperature finally starts to drop a bit, spending time outside will become more enjoyable. Taking a quiet walk or having a picnic at the gardens is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a hectic week, especially at sunset. There are also options to bike, ride horses, swim, or fish if you’ve already visited and want to experience the gardens in a new way.
Psychology: Movie Night at the ASLC
One of my hot takes is that the cinema at the ASLC is underrated, especially for upperclassmen and off-campus students who may not be on campus as often as new students. What makes this activity perfect for psych majors is the variety of movies shown. Many of them are psychological thrillers such as Eyes Wide Shut and Shutter Island, and can be fun to discuss with friends afterward.
English: Bookstore Study Date
Sometimes the go-to study spots on campus feel repetitive, or they’re just too busy when you’re looking for a quiet lock-in. Heading to a local bookstore such as Midtown Reader or Common Ground Books can provide a needed change of scenery and the opportunity to find your next read.
Business: Shopping at a Farmer’s Market
Supporting local businesses, getting a sweet treat with friends, and thrifting all in one spot sounds like the perfect fall morning to me. There are so many farmers’ markets in and around Tallahassee with amazing food, coffee, jewelry, and clothes.
Many of us have classes during Market Wednesday, but a number of those same vendors can be found at the Tallahassee Downtown Market. If you don’t mind the 25-minute drive from FSU campus, the SUN DAY farmer’s market is another great option!
Engineering: Escape Room
To me, there’s no better way to distract yourself from a long to-do list or an upcoming exam than an escape room, especially if you want to stay off your phone and spend quality time with your friends. For engineering majors, this activity provides a break from physics and calculus, while stretching your brain in a different way. Tallahassee has multiple, highly rated options, such as Secrets Escape Rooms.
Whether you stick with this list or choose your own adventure, it’s important to prioritize study breaks to avoid burnout amidst the busy responsibilities that pile up during college, especially during midterms.
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