News & Announcements

Spring break can mean different things to different people. For some it’s a chance to enjoy warm weather and sunshine. For others, it’s about traveling, exploring new places or spending time with family and friends. And for many it’s simply an opportunity to take a break from the routine of classes and recharge. No matter what your spring break looks like it’s a unique opportunity to embrace the wellness benefits spring has to offer—whether that’s outdoor relaxation or fresh energizing food. By spending time outside and fueling your body with seasonal nutrition you can set yourself up for a restorative break that leaves you feeling revitalized and ready to take on the rest of the semester.

Sun, Fresh Air, and Mental Clarity

Spring brings with it a natural invitation to step outside and soak up the beauty of the season. As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter it’s the perfect time to take advantage of nature’s restorative power.

Here are some of the key benefits of spending time outdoors:

Boosts Vitamin D Levels: Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which plays a vital role in regulating mood improving sleep and strengthening the immune system.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Time spent in nature has been shown to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) helping to ease mental tension and anxiety.

Increases Creativity and Focus: Being outdoors can help clear your mind improve focus and boost creativity by providing a break from the usual mental clutter.

Improves Mood: Exposure to natural light and fresh air can elevate serotonin levels contributing to a more positive mood and better emotional well-being.

Promotes Mindfulness: Outdoor activities encourage you to be present and aware of your surroundings which helps to reduce mental fatigue and enhance relaxation.

Supports Physical Health: Whether you’re walking biking or engaging in other physical activities time outside encourages movement and promotes overall physical health. By embracing the outdoors you can benefit from both mental clarity and physical rejuvenation—helping you recharge fully during your break.

Spring Produce

In addition to the time you spend soaking up the sunshine spring offers a bounty of fresh nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables to help support your body. Eating seasonal produce not only nourishes your body but also enhances your energy improves digestion and strengthens your immune system—just what you need to stay active and vibrant during break.

Here are a few standout spring foods and the amazing benefits they offer:

Strawberries: These sweet berries are packed with vitamin C an antioxidant that supports immune function fights inflammation and promotes healthy skin. They’re also a great source of fiber which helps digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

Spinach: Leafy greens like spinach are rich in iron essential for boosting energy levels as well as magnesium which helps relax muscles and reduces stress. They’re also packed with vitamin K to support bone health.

Asparagus: A quintessential spring vegetable asparagus is full of folate and fiber which promote healthy digestion and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s also great for detoxifying the body and reducing oxidative stress.

Radishes: These crunchy peppery vegetables are high in vitamin C which supports immune function and skin health. Radishes also contain potassium which helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

Peas: Fresh peas are rich in vitamin C and fiber making them a great choice for boosting immunity and improving digestive health. Their natural sweetness also makes them an enjoyable addition to any meal. By eating these seasonal foods while enjoying time outside you’re supporting both your mental and physical health—ensuring that you return to school feeling refreshed and recharged.

Safety First: Protect Yourself During Spring Break

While spring break is an exciting time to relax and unwind it’s important to stay mindful of your safety. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

Sun Protection: While soaking up the sun is beneficial for vitamin D protect your skin by using sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Reapply every two hours and wear protective clothing or a hat to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.

Hydrate: Spring break can often involve outdoor activities so make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue headaches and decreased mental clarity so aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day especially if you’re spending time in the sun.

Travel Safety: If you’re traveling be mindful of your surroundings. Always keep your belongings secure stay in well-lit areas and share your plans with a friend or family member in case of an emergency.

Pacing Yourself: Whether you’re enjoying social gatherings or indulging in your favorite foods remember to pace yourself. Rest is just as important as fun—take breaks get plenty of sleep and allow yourself time to recharge. As you embrace the joys of spring break remember that it’s a time to nourish both your body and mind. By spending time outdoors soaking up the sun and enjoying fresh seasonal foods you can recharge in ways that will leave you feeling restored and ready to take on the rest of the semester. Whether you’re relaxing, traveling or reconnecting with loved ones make sure to prioritize your health and safety so that your spring break is as enjoyable and revitalizing as possible. Take this opportunity to reset reenergize.

Finals season can be one of the most challenging times in college. Packed schedules and high-pressure exams have a way of really amping up our stress levels. While it’s easy to let self care go to the wayside during this time, taking care of your body and mind can be a key to your overall success. Good nutrition and quality sleep are powerful tools to stay sharp, focused, and energized when you need it most. Here’s a guide to support you in staying well and maximizing your potential during finals week.

Importance of Nutrition

The pressure of finals can lead to stress eating or skipping meals as you power through study sessions. But keeping your nutrition balanced is essential for sustained energy and focus. Here are a few tips to keep you balanced.

Tips:

• Quick, Nutritious Snacks: Stock up on brain-boosting snacks like nuts, yogurt, fruit, and whole-grain crackers. These options are easy to grab and keep energy levels up without much time commitment.
• Meal Planning for Finals: Prepare simple meals in advance or make use of leftovers to save time and ensure you’re fueling your body well.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water regularly is crucial for focus and energy. Add some variety with herbal teas or infused water, but try to limit caffeine, especially in the evening, to avoid disrupting sleep.

Sleep as a Study Tool
It’s tempting to stay up late cramming, but sacrificing sleep can impact your ability to remember and process information effectively. Your brain needs it’s beauty sleep! Here are a few tips to help you maximize your performance when it comes to sleep.

Tips:

• Prioritize Sleep Over Late-Night Cramming: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night; research shows that sleep helps solidify memory and improves concentration.
• Set a Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at consistent times, even during finals week, helps regulate your body’s internal clock and improves sleep quality.
• Power Naps: If you’re feeling tired during the day, a 20-30 minute nap can be a great way to recharge without interfering with your nighttime sleep.

Preparing for Exam Day
Setting yourself up for success on exam day starts with what you do the night before. Your nutrition and sleep habits leading up to your exam can make or break you when it comes to perform well on exams. Here are two things to keep in mind as you prepare for your exam.

• Night Before: Try to eat a balanced meal and go to bed at a consistent time to support a calm mind and body.
• Exam-Day Nutrition: Aim for a breakfast or snack with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs—such as oatmeal with nuts or a whole-grain sandwich with lean protein—to fuel mental endurance and focus.

As you dive into finals, remember that prioritizing your nutrition and rest can help you maximize your study efforts and support a clearer, more focused mind on exam day. Think of these practices as essential self-care tools that not only boost your academic performance but also keep you feeling well and energized. By fueling your body and resting your mind, you’re setting yourself up to succeed—not just during finals, but throughout your college journey.

 

On Nov. 15 – 17, the Department of Residence’s Life’s delegation of students and staff enthusiastically represented Texas A&M at The Southwest Affiliate of College & University Residence Halls (SWACURH) Regional Leadership Conference 2024, in Austin, TX. There, they met with tremendous success, bringing home several awards for students, staff, and community.

Our delegation included:

• RHA President Riley Pritzlaff
• RHA EVP Victoria Davis
• RHA NCC Clayton Conn
• RHA NCC-IT Trevor Von Wupperfeld
• RHA Community Development-IT Evelyn Figueroa
• RHA Marketing and Communications Chair Elizabeth Tobaben
• NRHH President of Internal Affairs Payton Bothelo
• NRHH Leadership Director Rylee Hupping
• Kenya Reeves, Sustainability Coordinator, and Justin Majors, Coordinator of Leadership and Engagement, who served as advisors

Additionally, our NRHH Executive President Genevieve Snider attended in her regional ADNRHH role and did an incredible job representing Texas A&M and the region.

Presentations & Programming Success

Several members of our delegation facilitated impactful presentations:

• Elizabeth Tobaben: Presented on marketing strategies.
• Victoria Davis & Payton Bothelo: Collaborated on a session about finance management in RHA/NRHH.

Their sessions were well-received and demonstrated the expertise and innovation of our student leaders.

Awards Recognition

We are thrilled to share that Texas A&M brought home several awards:

• Top 5 Program: Elizabeth Tobaben for her presentation on marketing
• Best Banner: TAMU delegation for our creative and engaging conference banner
• Golden Duck Award: Justin Majors (a special honor recognizing impactful contributions at the conference)
• Community of the Year: Mosher Hall

Mosher Hall was officially presented their Community of the Year award, on Tuesday, Nov. 19, during the RHA General Assembly.

The conference was an incredible opportunity to showcase our Aggie delegation’s talent, dedication, and spirit.

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Adapted from text by Justin Majors, Department of Residence Life

 

Winter break offers a much-needed chance to step back from school demands and recharge. However, going home for the holidays can bring unique challenges—especially for college students returning after a semester filled with growth, learning, and change. To make the most of your time off and truly rest, prioritizing your wellness as you transition back home is essential. Here’s a quick guide to keep in your toolkit to help you take care of yourself during the holiday season.

Navigating Family Dynamics
Navigating family dynamics during the holidays can feel complex as a college student. Returning home often brings a mix of comfort and constraint, especially now that you’ve grown and changed since your last time in that familiar space. It’s normal to feel a shift; this is a natural part of personal growth. Balancing your new sense of independence with family expectations can be challenging, but these feelings are common for many students. Embracing these changes and finding ways to communicate openly with family can help ease the transition, creating a more enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Tips:

• Manage Expectations: Share your holiday plans and commitments in advance, so family members understand your schedule and can respect your need for downtime.
• Reconnect with Friends: Catching up with friends from home can provide balance and remind you of your support network outside of family.
• Embrace Flexibility: Remember, family traditions may feel different now, and that’s okay! Try to approach these moments with an open mind and enjoy the opportunity to create new memories.
• Focus on the Positive: Reflect on what you appreciate about your family and holiday time together. A focus on gratitude can make it easier to handle challenges.
• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends or mentors if you need to talk through any holiday stress. Having someone to confide in can make a big difference.

Re-establishing Healthy Habits at Home
Changes in environment and routine during the holidays can have a noticeable impact on mental health, especially when it comes to adjusting back to family life. After experiencing the freedom to set your own schedules at college, going home can mean adapting to different routines and expectations around food, sleep, and personal time. These shifts can feel unsettling, disrupting the daily rhythms that help you feel grounded. Altered sleep patterns, eating habits, and the change in access to familiar support networks can all contribute to feelings of stress or anxiety. Recognizing these changes and finding ways to incorporate elements of your usual routine—whether it’s making time for exercise, setting aside quiet moments for yourself, or staying connected with friends—can help you preserve your mental well-being amidst the transition.

Tips:

• Set a Flexible Routine: Try to bring elements of your college routine into your home life. For example, if you’re used to a specific bedtime or morning ritual, aim to keep some of those habits while being flexible with family plans.
• Communicate Needs: Talk openly with family about your need for personal time or rest. Letting them know why these routines are important can make them more supportive of your boundaries.
• Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends or classmates who may also be going through similar adjustments. Having someone to share your experiences with can be comforting and help you feel less isolated.
• Practice Mindfulness: Try a daily practice, like deep breathing or a short meditation, to stay centered. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and ground you in the moment, especially during times when you feel overwhelmed.
• Prepare for Sleep Changes: Anticipate that your sleep environment may be different from college, and consider bringing any small comforts (like a favorite blanket or earplugs) that can help you rest better at home.
• Find Moments for Self-Care: Incorporate short self-care breaks during the day, like going for a walk, reading, or listening to music alone. These small moments can help you recharge and feel more like yourself.

Conclusion
As you head into the holiday break, remember to approach this time as an opportunity to reflect, rest, and reset. It’s natural for home life to feel different after the independence of college, but taking steps to care for yourself will make the transition smoother. Prioritizing your mental health and well-being—whether by setting boundaries, maintaining familiar routines, or carving out personal time—is essential, even when you’re back with family. Embrace this time as a chance to recharge and prepare for the semester ahead, knowing that taking care of yourself is key to making the most of both your holiday and your journey in college.

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By Konner Carnahan

To cultivate the healing power of mindfulness requires much more than mechanically following a recipe or set of instructions. - Jon Kabat-Zin

 

To some, the practice of mindfulness may seem similar to many of the new-age wellness trends that quickly gain popularity on social media. However, mindfulness is a practice that dates back thousands of years. Originally, it was a practice rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Still, as it has made its way to the Western world, it evolved from its religious roots and became a secular practice backed by science and research. Today, mindfulness is practiced by individuals from all walks of life to reduce stress and enhance feelings of well-being.

Mindfulness is a form of meditative practice that elevates present-moment awareness (Ludwig & Kabat-Zinn, 2008). The scientific foundation for mindfulness rests on two key interventions: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. Both interventions have proven effective time and time again, and together they created a basis for ongoing research surrounding mindfulness techniques. In this research, the following things about the benefits of mindfulness were discovered (Staff, 2024):

• Decreased anxiety and depression.
• Improved immune function
• Improved mental clarity, focus, and overall brain function.
• Improved heart health due to decreased blood pressure.
• Improved self-confidence.
• Improved mood.
• Improved sleep.

If these improvements to well-being are alluring to you, here are a few mindfulness techniques to get you started in your practice.

• The Wheel of Awareness
  • This can expand your awareness from yourself to your outer world for a full and encompassing sense of connection and knowing.
• Leaves on a Stream
  • This will allow you to let go of problematic thoughts through practicing cognitive diffusion.
• Eye of the Hurricane Meditation
  • Use this meditation to connect to a place of inner peace and calm.

For other mindfulness resources, you can visit www.mindful.org.

Now that you know the basics, all there is left to do is get started! Download this PDF for a full description of the practices listed above. Happy practicing!

 

Sources:

Ludwig, D. S., & Kabat-Zinn, J. (2008). Mindfulness in medicine. JAMA, 300 (11), 1350-1352.

Staff, M. (2024, February 21). The science of mindfulness. https://www.mindful.org/the-science-of-mindfulness/

The inside scoop of APM’s and how they can help you succeed this semester!

 

The Academic Peer Mentors (or APM’s for short) are a team of students from diverse backgrounds who are trained and knowledgeable on campus resources and are ready to help students with whatever they may need! For some of us who took this on-campus position, we were once first year students and want to offer that helping hand that we had or wish we had our first years of college. For others, we have had the experience of switching majors or applying for graduate school and want to help other aggies succeed in preparation and execution of their future endeavors. Ultimately, we are here to give back and help all Aggies make the most of their time here in Aggieland! We offer a wide range of services to help Aggies succeed and below are testimonies from some of our current APM’s!

 

Academic Check Ups

As Academic Peer Mentors, we want to help YOU reach YOUR version of academic success, and one way we can work with you is through our Academic Check Ups! Academic Check Ups (ACUs) are 1:1 meetings with an APM to receive academic advice or coaching on anything from how to prepare for an exam, time management, academic resources, and much more! As the mentee, you get to choose the frequency of the meetings, what goals you want to work on, and if you would like to meet with an APM of the same major. The APM team will meet you where you are in your academic journey and offer their own advice, experiences, and resources to help out!

With over 18 personable ACUs in the Fall of ‘22 here is what second-year APM Payton Davis had to say about her own experience as a mentee:

“I used the APM program the spring semester of my freshmen year. It helped me a lot with keeping a good schedule and reducing the amount of stress I was under. Because of this experience and seeing the direct benefits from using the resource, I decided to become an Academic Peer Mentor in order to help people that were in similar places that I was in.”

If you are interested in an ACU feel free to sign up using this link : https://tamu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8197y7obO16VCZv

 

REVTalks

REVTalks are fun campus wide events like “TedTalks” where expert panelists share their experiences on a specific academic topic. In the past we have covered topics such as Internships and Research, Financial Aid & Scholarships (FAFSA), ETAM, Study Abroad and much more!! Each event also has a specific theme and usually involves food or snacks when students RSVP in advance. (If someone does not RSVP we usually have some extra goodies just in case!) Our most recent REVTalks included video game themed “Switch’in it up” with TAP and Minors and a “Let’s Taco-bout Registration”. With these events being hosted approximately every 2 weeks throughout the fall and spring semester, it’s hard to miss one! Here is what first-year APM Nat Chumpirom ‘26 had to say when she attended her first REVTalk:

“During the first semester of my freshman year, my roommate invited me to accompany her to the Internships and Research REVTalk, where I learned a lot about how to get involved in research on campus as well as what to look for and what to take from internships. In this case, one of the panelists was a graduate student of my major, so it was actually quite helpful to hear information specifically catered to me! I ended up gaining a lot of useful knowledge about something that I didn’t necessarily need to be worried about just yet, but it was reassuring to know there were people on campus, let alone student workers just like me, who were very knowledgeable about this and who I could go to with these inquiries.”

 

Program of the Month

Programs are catered to in-hall residents and are a great way to build community within the residence halls and to learn something new! With our brand new Program of the Month initiative, we have carefully curated programs circulating all halls such as “Healthy Habits” for the month of October and “Finals prep” for the month of November. Feel free to ask your RAs about any APM programs going on in your dorm as we tend to change them each semester. We also like to program outside of residents halls by putting on tabling events in the MSC or SSB. You can expect free resources, tips, and a fun time when the APM’s are involved! Programs are not necessarily geared towards just in-hall residents, and any on-campus organization or office can request a APM collaboration program using this link: tx.ag/apmcollab. When asked “What was your favorite thing about the program?” following a recent event, here is what residents responded with:

 

"I loved meeting new people!"

"(APM) Christina Garza is amazing!"

"The donuts and bingo!"

"Everyone was very friendly!"

 

Staff Office Hours

Much like how professors have office hours, the APM Team has open office hours where students can walk in and ask questions. With offices located in Hullabaloo 125 & Commons 102, our staff is ready to welcome any and all students! We also have FREE scantrons, flashcards, and test taking supplies such as bluebooks for people who sign-in! We are honestly so happy when people drop in and even happier if we are able to help you find a resource!

 

More information about when our offices are open, future programs and events, and on-campus resources can be found on Instagram @tamu_apm. If you have any other questions or inquiries feel free to email [email protected] as well!

 

Howdy Ags!

Happy New Year! How are we feeling about 2024? Ay whoop! I'm Justin Majors, and I'm here to share some profound insights on the power of choices, actions, and leadership, especially within the vibrant Texas A&M University community.

But before we dive into the heart of the matter, let's kick things off with a bit of fun—a round of This or That's to get those brains warmed up:

• Commons - Sbisa
• Canes - Laynes
• Early morning - Late Night
• Group Project – Individual Work
• Fuego - Torchy’s
• MSC – Evans Library
• Board Game – Video Game
• Leader - Follower
• Breakfast - Lunch – Dinner
• Introvert – Extrovert
• Northside - Apartments - Southside

Choice

Throughout this activity, you've made choices—some easy, some based on experiences, and some just reflecting the norm. But beyond this exercise, think about the choices you've made throughout your college journey. From choosing A&M to deciding whether to study or not, you've been at the helm of your decisions. Your choices turn into actions, and as we know, actions speak louder than words.

The Power of Actions in Leadership

These actions are critical in leadership and followership because they are what everyone else sees. Even when you choose not to act, that decision still demonstrates a choice. The power you hold to make a choice and move forward is essential for leadership. Every decision you make showcases your priorities. For instance, how you engage in activities or adjust your approach, be it during conversations, small group sessions, or lunch chats—each reflects a choice you've made in different ways.

Now, you might wonder, how do these choices tie into leadership?

Leadership as a Choice

As students, you are the decision-makers. While there are individuals above making choices, it's your decisions that can truly make an impact. If you decide to stand for something, the university must listen. Your choice is your voice. Silence or inaction can be interpreted as acceptance or indifference, but when you speak up, advocate for change, or support initiatives, your voice resonates loud and clear. Even in following a leader, you are making a choice, and agreeing with their actions. No choice is a choice in itself.

The Importance of Using Your Voice

Your voice is a powerful tool. When you choose to use it, you contribute to the vibrant tapestry of perspectives on campus. Whether it's expressing opinions in class discussions, participating in student government, or joining advocacy groups, your voice matters. It's not just about speaking for yourself but also representing those who may not have the opportunity to be heard. Don't underestimate the impact of your ideas and the change your voice can inspire.

Getting Involved: A Catalyst for Growth

Now, let's delve into the significance of getting involved on campus. Your journey at Texas A&M becomes richer when you actively participate in student organizations and campus life. In addition to fostering a sense of community and belonging, involvement exposes you to diverse perspectives and experiences. Whether it's joining NRHH, RHA, or Eco-Reps, each organization offers a unique platform to connect with like-minded individuals, make lifelong friends, and leave a lasting impact on campus culture.

Developing Leadership Skills: Your Path to Success

Engaging in student organizations and residence life jobs is not just about adding lines to your resume. It's about honing crucial leadership skills that will serve you well beyond your college years. As an RA, APM, Tour Guide, Desk Worker, or Game Room Worker, you're not only fulfilling a role but developing skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. These skills are the building blocks of successful leadership in any field, equipping you with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of the professional world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, your choices and actions define your leadership journey. Joining student organizations like NRHH, RHA, and Eco-Reps, or taking on roles such as RA, APM, Tour Guide, Desk Worker, or Game Room Worker, provides invaluable experiences. These opportunities not only contribute to the development of your leadership skills but also create a positive impact on the university community.

So, use your voice, get involved, and actively develop your leadership skills. Remember, every choice you make is an opportunity to lead, and your voice matters. So, make the choice to lead and let your actions speak volumes. Happy leading!

 

About the Author: Justin Majors

Coordinator of Leadership and Engagement
Department of Residence Life | Division of Student Affairs

As college students return from their well-deserved break, starting the new semester with a fresh mindset and a plan to make the most of the upcoming months is essential. This blog post will provide valuable insights and tips on organizing your hall space, finishing the semester strong, building a community, and utilizing on-campus resources effectively.

1. Organizing Your Hall Space:

• Declutter: Start the semester off right by decluttering your living space. Avoid unnecessary items and create a clean, organized environment that promotes productivity and focus.
• Personalize: Make your hall space feel like home by adding personal touches such as photos, artwork, or inspirational quotes. Creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere will enhance your overall well-being and motivation.

2. Starting Strong:

• Set Goals: Reflect on your previous semester and identify areas for improvement. Set realistic goals for the current semester, both academically and personally. Write them down and regularly review them to stay on track.
• Time Management: Develop a schedule that effectively balances your academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and personal life. Prioritize tasks, create to-do lists, and use time management techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique to increase productivity.

3. Building a Community:

• Attend Campus Events: Take advantage of your college or university's various events and activities. These events provide opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and expand your social network.
• Join Clubs and Organizations: Engage in clubs and organizations that align with your interests and passions. Not only will this help you meet like-minded individuals, but it will also enhance your personal and professional growth.

     4. Utilizing On-Campus Resources:

• Academic Support: Use on-campus resources such as tutoring centers and academic advisors. These resources can assist you in improving your study skills, understanding complex concepts, and staying on top of your coursework.
• Career Services: Start planning for your future by utilizing career services offered by your college. They can help you explore career options, polish your resume, and provide networking opportunities.

Bottomline:

By following these key points, college students can make the most of their semester after returning from break. Remember to stay organized, set goals, build a supportive community, and take advantage of the resources available on campus. With a proactive approach and a positive mindset, you'll be well on your way to a successful and fulfilling semester.

As the end of the semester approaches, students across the country eagerly await the much-needed holiday break. The break provides a chance to reunite with family and friends. However, traveling home may require additional planning and considerations for college students living on campus. In this article, we will provide helpful tips for navigating the logistics of traveling, making the most of your time at home, and returning to campus rejuvenated and ready for the next semester.

Here are some helpful tips:

1. Plan and book your travel in advance: Start planning your travel arrangements as early as possible to avoid last-minute hassles and skyrocketing prices. Research transportation options, whether booking a flight, train, or bus or coordinating a carpool with fellow students heading in the same direction. Securing your travel plans in advance can ensure a stress-free journey home.
2. Pack strategically: When packing for your trip home, be mindful of what you will need. Consider the weather, the duration of your stay, and any specific events or activities you have planned. Aim to pack light, bringing only essential items to avoid carrying heavy suitcases. If possible, ship any bulky items or winter gear ahead of time to minimize luggage weight. Remember to take your valuables with you as well.
3. Communicate and coordinate with family and friends: Before heading home, communicate your arrival and departure details to your family and friends. Let them know your travel plans and any changes that may arise. Coordinate with them regarding family gatherings, celebrations, or outings you'd like to participate in during your stay. Clear communication will help ensure a smooth transition into the holiday festivities.
4. Make a list of priorities: With limited time at home, it's essential to prioritize your activities and commitments. Make a list of the things you'd like to accomplish or experience while you are home, whether it's spending quality time with loved ones, reconnecting with old friends, or engaging in hobbies you've missed. A clear list will help you make the most of your break and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
5. Relax and recharge: While it's essential to make the most of your time at home, remember the true purpose of the holiday break: to relax and recharge. Take this time to unwind, catch up on sleep, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's curling up with a good book, taking long walks in nature, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones, prioritize self-care during your break.
6. Stay productive: While relaxation is crucial, it's also beneficial to maintain some level of productivity during the break. Use this time to catch up on academic work, review course materials, or get a head start on upcoming assignments. Dedicating a few hours each day to academic tasks can alleviate stress and ensure a smoother transition back to campus life.
7. Reflect and set goals: The holiday break is an ideal time for self-reflection. Take a step back and evaluate the past semester. Consider your achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. Use this evaluation to set realistic goals for the upcoming semester. Setting academic, personal, or professional goals will give you direction and motivation as you enter the new semester.

 

Bottomline

Traveling home for the holiday break while living on campus requires careful planning and organization. By booking travel in advance, packing strategically, communicating with family and friends, prioritizing activities, relaxing and recharging, and staying productive, you can make the most of your time at home. Remember, this break is an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, rest, and return to campus with renewed energy and focus for the upcoming semester. Remember, this break is an opportunity for rest, self-improvement, and creating lasting memories.