The semester is finally over and winter break has begun. For most college students, classes won't begin for multiple weeks. While you're home, you might as well do some productive things while also taking advantage of the opportunities that you have in your home environment. Here's a list of things to do to keep you busy in the beginning of winter break:

1. Have a family dinner.

That's right, sit down with your parents, grandparents, and siblings and enjoy a home-cooked meal. Don't bail on your family to hang out with your friends, family gatherings are very important.

2. Read a few books for fun.

This past semester, you read scholarly books and textbooks, but now, it's time to read some of your favorite genres. Local library, get ready because here we come!

3. Spend an entire day in your pajamas.

It's not too acceptable to go to class in your pajamas (but I have seen it done before.) It is acceptable, however, to lounge at home all day long in your PJs and annoy your dogs and parents. Why put on jeans when you can get away with PJ pants for the entire day?

4. Buy Christmas gifts for your loved ones.

Yeah, college kids are broke, but are you really not going to give your mom and dad a special, heartfelt gift this Holiday season? Year round, your parents put your wants and needs before theirs; now it is time for you to put your parents wants and needs before your own. Pick out a gift that your parents will love.

5. Introduce your best friend(s) to your favorite Christmas movies.

After finding out that my best friend has never seen "The Santa Clause" 1, 2, or 3, I realized that I was failing at my best friend duties. She NEEDS to enjoy and cherish these movies as much as I do!

6. Walk your dogs (and if you don't have dogs, walk your neighbors' dogs!)

Why? Because 1. Dogs rule and 2. You can't do that at school!

7. Drive around with your best friends and look at all the Christmas decorations on houses nearby.

Although you are older now, you can still find joy by embracing the Christmas spirit.

8. Visit your high school and let your favorite teacher(s) know how much you miss them.

I can't wait to see my favorite teacher after a few months of not seeing her. High school may have sucked, but now that you're older and graduated, stepping onto school grounds won't be as dreadful.

9. Tell your family you love them.

Odds are, you don't say this enough. I know I don't. But it's true, you do love them, and you miss them when you're away for so long.