Finals week is coming. You’re probably being slammed with final projects, essays and exams, but that doesn’t mean you should spend the entire month cooped up studying in your dorm. Even if it’s just for one night, try to take a few hours out of your busy day to get some fresh air and de-stress—trust me, you’ll come back to your work feeling more refreshed and productive. Here are some events at Rutgers this week that are both winter-themed and a way for you to chill out before finals:
December 2: Free Holiday Movie Series
Photo by Kilyan Sockalin
Who doesn’t love a good Christmas movie? With a canned food donation to the Rutgers Food Pantry, you can enjoy a free ticket to the Rutgers Cinema for The Polar Express this Sunday. If you can’t make it this Sunday, there will be a free movie playing at the theatre every Sunday until December 23rd. Movies are a great way to immerse yourself in another world and de-stress for a few hours, so I definitely recommend going with friends for a group movie trip.
December 3: DIY Ornaments
Photo by Annie Spratt
Spend your Monday afternoon at the Red Lion’s Lounge in the College Avenue Student Center making some ornaments with RU Sure! Especially with Christmas just around the corner, a homemade ornament will be a nice touch on your Christmas tree and is a way for you to get creative while de-stressing from finals. The event is free, and pizza, snacks, and beverages are served.
December 5: paintOn
Photo by Annie Spratt
Do you like arts and crafts? And Christmas? For only $7 pre-sale and $10 at the door, Rutgers buildOn is hosting a night of painting and ornament decorating at the Red Lion Cafe, along with holiday-themed snacks and drinks. An instructor will also be teaching you how to paint your own “Winter Wonderland”! This is a really fun event that will tap into your creative side, and you might come out of it with some possible gifts or stocking stuffers for friends.
December 6: Drug-Free Jamboree
For those interested in music, Active Minds and RU Drug Aware is hosting an event at Hidden Grounds to de-stress with art therapy, mindfulness and other self-care activities. The event is completely free, and food and beverages will be provided. Also, everyone in attendance will be entered in a raffle for gift cards and other giveaways, which is perfect if you need to get some last-minute Christmas gifts (or want to do some winter shopping for yourself)!
December 9: 4th Annual Yule Ball
If you’re a Harry Potter nerd, Muggle Mayhem is hosting their annual Yule Ball next Sunday. With music, food and games, this event is a great way to de-stress and dress up with your friends. The event is free, but monetary donations will be accepted to benefit Doctors Without Borders. Formal or semi-formal clothing is recommended.
With something for everyone, take the time away from your textbook or computer and spend at least an hour or so doing something for pure enjoyment. While academics are important, self-care and chilling out is equally important and will also refresh your mind so that you’re not overwhelmed with studying. Hopefully, you check out one of these events and have fun!