Lessons Learned Over Spring Break: The DOs and DON’Ts

The Do’s and Don’ts of Spring Break
 
            It’s amazing how quickly spring break flies by! Whether we spent our breaks relaxing, partying, vacationing, or a combination of those, I’m sure we can all attest that break goes by ridiculously fast.  Overall, here are some guidelines I’ve learned over my break to take with me for next year.

1. DO spend time with friends and family.  Take advantage of these quick breaks because for many of us, there’s a long period of time before we’ll be able to see everyone again.  And as the years go and we all live separately, our schedules get more cluttered and it’s difficult to find coinciding time to be together and catch up.
2. DO find interesting things to do that you’ve either never done or haven’t done in awhile.  While we’re away from campus, we should take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves.  For example, take day trips to areas you’ve never been to and do some exploring.  Or, volunteer at different charities and organizations for a new experience and to build your resume at the same time!
3. DO look into making job or internship plans for the summer.  Many internships have application deadlines, so while you’re relaxing on the couch, you can also take time to build your resume and begin the application process.  Or, for those looking for a summer job, spring break is the perfect time to venture out to stores, restaurants, etc., and apply for summer work.  Many places will be hiring and there could be open spots.  The earlier you get active towards getting a job the better—otherwise the high school students will take up all the spots!
4. DON’T forget sunscreen.  Yes, I learned the hard way in Florida this break.  You will have to spend more time waiting to get tan, but you won’t waste as much time applying aloe or sitting in pain because you can feel the burn from your lobster-looking back.  Overall, it just puts an unnecessary damper on a vacation. Also, with all the dangers associated with too much exposure to the sun, it’s definitely a smart decision.
5. DON’T go crazy spending all your money.  Of course, we may want to get a few new spring tops or accessories, but it’s inevitable that we’re heading back to school and we don’t want to be that much lower on our spending money while on campus.  Set yourself a budget so that you don’t find your wallet empty later.
6. DO try to meet new people, especially if you’re on vacation.  Keep in mind that you should be careful and not talk to just any random stranger, but it’s always fun to meet new people from different places and it will be a good mix from the familiar faces you’re used to.  My friend formed a group of friends on vacation just from wearing her Pitt t-shirt and instantly created connections. 

 
Spring break can certainly be both an entertaining and a relaxing time that shouldn’t be wasted! Take some of these suggestions into consideration as our breaks come to an end (and even carry some of them into the summer!).  Hopefully, you’ll come back to campus with a rejuvenated mindset, ready to take on the rest of the semester.