If you’re a college student, you may listen to “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!” and hear "It's the Most Hectic Time of the Year!" You just finished juggling finals, projects, papers, and presentations with your life and holiday plans. All I wanted to do was eat, sleep, and have myself a merry little Christmas when I put down my pen after my last final. Though it's difficult to find motivation during your much-needed break, it's advantageous to spend some of your time planning for the upcoming semester. Here are a few proactive, productive steps to take during your R&R:
Create a SuccessFund
During undergrad, I received a letter every year around Christmastime informing me of the tuition and fees increases the board of trustees had approved. It never failed to put a damper on my otherwise favorite time of year. Creating a SuccessFund is a great way to get a gift you'll really use—your funds can go toward a range of educational costs from tuition to study abroad. It’s an easy gift for family members who are separated by distance or are unsure of what to get you. They’ll feel good contributing to your education and their gift is meaningful in your life. Through SuccessFunding, your great-aunt can donate toward your dream of studying in France. Wouldn't you rather enjoy a croissant in lieu of her holiday fruit cake?
Do Your Research
This is the perfect opportunity to look out into the horizon and evaluate your life. When I say "do your research", I don't mean thesis or research paper sorta research. Do life research. Which grad school would be the best fit for you? What apartment complexes have a good reputation and the amenities you want? What classes will you have to take and GPA will you have to maintain to get into that program you're interested in? During the spring semester you'll be charged with making decisions left and right. Start researching and thinking about your options now so you'll be ready to make a choice when the time comes.
Apply
You have more time now than you will in the midst of next semester. Take this opportunity to apply for all the programs and opportunities you’re interested in. Once you factor in class, your social life, involvement in organizations, job, etc. it’ll be much harder to write a required essay or ask for a letter of recommendation during the semester. If you're not quite ready to apply, take a prep class for a grad school admissions exam (GRE, MCAT, LSAT, etc.), work on your resume, etc. so you'll be able to apply soon.
Now's Your Chance—Send that Email
Do you need a career counselor's help with your resume? Is the 4th edition of the textbook really necessary for your sociology class or will the 3rd suffice? There are probably professors, advisers, and other staff on campus who you have questions for or need assistance from. Now may be the best time to email them with your questions or ask for their help. Their life has likely slowed down between semesters just like yours has. Allow them to have their time off; don't contact them before January 1st. There's no guarantee they'll respond. They might be playing catch-up, teaching an intersession class, or taking a vacation from email during their break. However, any headway you make or resolution you get now will lighten your load in the spring.
by: Paige Witthar
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