For most universities across the U.S., campuses are closed and classes are moved online. While this may mean that you still have to attend your lectures, you might find yourself with a little more free time as opposed to when you were physically on campus. Here are some ways you can use your spare time, at home, to your advantage:
- Online Volunteering
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There are so many organizations seeking volunteers that can work from the comfort of their own home! I believe that volunteering is a great way to spend your time, because not only will you be meeting new people, you’ll also get the opportunity to help those in need. Now, what can be more satisfying than that – especially during a global crisis? Volunteering has also been proven to help individuals with their communication skills, teamwork and time management.
- Exercise
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I know gyms are closed to avoid contamination, but that doesn’t mean that your chances of getting a summer body are over! If you have any free time available, then I definitely recommend trying some at-home workout routines. For instance, I like to do yoga every morning before my cup of coffee, and so far I have been watching @SarahBethYoga on YouTube to help me get started. Exercise will not only tone your body but will also make you feel more relaxed and confident. It is proven to help with alertness and attention as well.
- Start Planning
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Although this seems somewhat vague, it is so important because you will always be prepared for upcoming months. I like to take some time to create a four year plan of what classes I want to take in the next semester, and do some research about internships near my campus. If you’re about to graduate then do some planning about which workforce you want to join, how you want to get your dream job or even how you would want to improve and grow.
- Read a Book
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With social media and entertainment sites such as Netflix, we rarely give ourselves a chance to pick up a good book to read. If you have any free time available, then do some research and find the perfect novel! Reading has so many advantages: it can increase your brain power, it can make you more empathetic and is proven to help you relax.
- Spend Time With Your Family
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For most of us, we don’t get a chance to be with our family as often as we’d like because we work or we’re in college. Take this time to watch a movie with your parents, facetime your grandparents or play cards with your little brother. Your family is your no. 1 supporter so don’t forget to show them some love during this time.
So these were a couple of ideas I had for how to use your free time wisely! It is totally normal to want to just go on your phone or watch TV, but remember to also stay productive so your brain can get it’s workout as well. Other than that, please don’t forget to sanitize and practice those social distancing skills.
Hope everyone is safe and healthy!