“How is your winter break going?”

College students who are currently on break have several different answers to this question, depending on the person and what they have planned for the next few weeks. Some may have a lot of events planned, or can be taking a winter class, so it may barely feel like a break. However, for others, it is possibly a dull break, and while it is great to relax and see family members during this time, the days can drag on. If you are someone like me who constantly needs to be doing something, these are some ideas on how to keep busy:

1. See as many close friends from your hometown as you can.

The close friends you made in high school and in your area are likely still important to you. Whereas you used to see them every day at school or around the neighborhood, it has probably been quite the opposite once college started. Everyone goes their own ways, but it is nice to stay in touch and see everybody again to show that you are still thinking about them.

2. Try to plan little weekend trips, either with friends or family.

Head to a different city for a weekend or two, and treat it like mini-vacation. Once more than one little trip has been planned, the break suddenly feels a lot shorter, and you now have something to look forward to in the coming weeks.

3. Visit people who you are normally unable to visit.

If you have a family member who lives a couple of hours away, take a ride to see them while you can. It can certainly make their day, especially if they have not seen you in a while.

4. Enjoy the good food that you have access to.

Let’s face it: if you live on campus, the dining hall food is likely far from appetizing. I like to take advantage of the food around me while I’m home, especially the variety that is offered in New York City.

5. Get a part-time job, if possible.

If you can find a place that hires for just a temporary amount of time, having a part-time job is a great way to keep busy while making some extra spending money. It’s not the most enjoyable thing to do, but if there is really not much else to do during the break, it is not a bad idea at all.

6. Do activities you enjoy.

At school, everyone is so inundated with assignments that we sometimes forget to do what we love. It may be a sport or something else you like to do for fun just to unwind. For me, I am writing for my own personal enjoyment during this time. Rather than having my attention stuck on assigned essays, I have been writing articles, poetry and fiction lately. Mostly everyone has something they can do to get their mind off things.

It really is great to have a few weeks to relax in between semesters, but sometimes we are just anxious to get back to our busy daily routine. This year, my winter break is a little longer than most of my friend’s breaks, so I have found myself particularly anxious to find as much to do as possible.