Congrats! You made it past week seven of school here at UW-La Crosse. But, that’s just the halfway point. For now, you’ve earned the right to a fun, exciting, warm spring break trip. I’m sure you’re ready to leave the cold and enter the sunny beaches of somewhere warm like Florida, but make sure to have some guidelines to having the best break of your college career. Warning: Not every trip is like Spring Breakers!
1. ALWAYS travel with friends.
Don’t go anywhere alone, especially when you’re in uncharted territory in a foreign state. Spring break destinations are prime target spots for predators or people wanting to mix trouble with you. Always have your cell phone on you and cash in case of an emergency.
2. Make sure to check out the state laws where you are staying.
Just because it may be legal in Wisconsin, the drinking state, it may not be somewhere else. Abide by rules to make sure you don’t end up waking up in a jail cell.
3. As most of you know, spring break trips usually involve a heavy amount of drinking.
While I’m all for having fun, you don’t want to do something that will negatively alter your life. Drinking obviously clouds your judgement, so please be careful—you never know who or what could take advantage of you.
4. Make the most of your time and do something unforgettable.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone can broaden your views on life, maybe even affect your ethics at home. Open your eyes to what’s out there and take everything in. Sometimes you are looking but not really seeing. Be sure to take (safe) chances and turn any situation into a positive one.
5. Your trip is what you make of it.
Don’t expect anything like in Spring Breakers—chances are you’ll be exhausted most of the time and have a really bad hangover. Sometimes it’s okay to have a chill break.
6. Most of all, HAVE FUN.
Be safe from the moment you leave until the moment you come back. Wear sunscreen, make good choices, hang out with good people and enjoy—this just may be something that you never forget.