Reading week is fast approaching for some universities, and after almost two years of hybrid online classes, it’s going to be a much-needed break. Initially, reading week was designed to allow students an allotted week to prepare for their looming midterms and assignments. But many students also use it as a time to recharge and even catch up with friends. How you use reading week is up to you, but if you’re feeling lost on how to use this sacred week effectively, then look no further! Here are five suggestions on how to spend your reading week.
This past month of school felt like a whole year. As a student, you are probably already feeling super burnt out. Make sure you take time to rest and catch up on all the sleep you lost from pulling all-nighters cramming for tests. As someone who has trouble falling asleep, my go-to methods are taking melatonin (the gummies hit differently) or reading a book before bed. If you’re not much of a sleeper, even just taking time for yourself, possibly catching up on Netflix shows is a great way to unwind. My current favorite is Squid Game, but if you are not into gore, then Gilmore Girls is always a must during the fall time!
I don’t know about you, but with life being so stagnant every day, I desperately need some change, particularly physical change. The easiest way to get that is by having a mini glow-up. This could consist of getting your nails done, getting a new hair-do, or even doing something a little different with your makeup or outfits. Even the slightest change matters, as long as it makes you feel good. To prepare for a mini glow-up, I always like to create a little Pinterest board for inspiration. Remember, these changes should be for you and not anyone else.
Volunteering is another fulfilling way to spend your reading week. It’s a great way to give back and gain experience. Local libraries, leisure centers, and food banks are always looking for volunteers. Take this week to get to know your community and help those in vulnerable situations. Not only will this benefit them but also yourself. With COVID, people have been so disconnected from one another, so it’s important to keep seeking connections in meaningful ways.
Fall is my favorite time of year. The vibes and festivities are unmatched. I love making plans during the Fall, which is why my reading week probably won’t be the most academically productive, but it will be socially productive! Going to pumpkin patches, attending Halloween Haunt at Canada’s Wonderland, or even just studying in cafes while wearing a knit sweater and feeling like the main character are all a few of my favorite ways to spend the season. The only time I get to do these things is during reading week. Downey’s farm is my favorite for pumpkin patches and apple picking.
If you want to use reading week for its intended purpose, that is an option too. Catch up on the lectures you said you would watch three weeks ago, or do that paper on that book you haven’t started yet. Remind yourself that you’re going to power through your procrastination and not take TikTok breaks every five minutes. Many online applications can help you with taking notes and staying on track. A few that I’ve tried myself are Notion, RemNote, and a couple of google extensions that I learned from this YouTube video.
Reading week is a privilege not all university students have. So if your university has a reading week, use it to your advantage! Whether it’s to take a well-deserved rest, have a glow-up, volunteer, participate in Fall festivities, or study. Even having a healthy balance of all of these could do you some good. Best of luck to everyone who has midterm season coming up!