This isn't going to be a preachy article or one that tells you to "count your blessings."

However, this is a super serious article. I want you all to read every word carefully and take in everything that I have to say. Whether this is your first, second, or even last winter break in college, there's a lot to still consider and to think about concerning the past semester.

College is hard, this is something that we college students know. It can be hard in many different areas: adapting, academics, organizations, clubs, money, etc. No matter the level or area, we all struggle in college in some way. So, this article is a chance for you all to think about some things and to reflect ton the past semester and to think about the semesters, or adult life, to come in the future.

Holiday breaks are a time for us to relax and to recharge, but have you ever taken that time to reflect? To reflect on how you did academically, what you got involved in, and what you can choose to do differently for the next semester. Here is a list of some things you can choose to reflect on during winter break:

1. How can I be more involved?

Think about this one carefully. Use this time to not only reflect on that but also do some research on how you can push yourself to do more on campus. Search on your college's website and see what kinds of club and fundraisers and events that your school offers. Try looking up volunteer opportunities as well! I started volunteering my second semester of college and it was one of the most fun things I ever did for myself! Not to mention, you feel great afterward.

2. Am I too involved?

College is not like high school. You can't exactly do almost every single club, sport, or extracurricular and be able to do all of it. College comes with choices, so you have to figure out if you're a good multitasked or not. Can you do 10 different clubs on top of your academics? Or can you only balance one? Either way, it will be ok! At least you're doing something you love whether it's through one club or 10 clubs!

3. How did I do academically?

My first semester of college was rough and I did not do as well as I could have. Part of this was because I had such a hard time adapting to college life and living on my own. So, reflect not that. Are you adapting well? Did you not do so well this semester? How can you change your academic habits for next semester? Or, did you do really well this semester? Think about how you can keep up that academic drive for the next semester and all the semesters after that.

4. Am I adapting well?

Like I said before, I had a hard time adjusting my first semester and because of that, I had a hard time making friends and breaking out of my shell. Think about if you are adapting well too. Have you made a lot of friends? Are you getting along with your roommate ok? Or, if you're graduating or are graduating, think about the "real adult world." Do you think you'll adapt okay? Are you ready to graduate and go out into the real world?

5. Am I okay?

I think this is one of the most important questions to ask yourself. Like I said, college can be a major struggle and because of that, you might forget about the most important thing: your health. This isn't only your physical or internal health, but also your mental health.

When you get caught in the buzz of college, you can often forget to take care of yourself while trying to take care of all your work. Think about this and ask yourself: How am I doing? Am I okay? Do I need to talk to anybody? And then, after that, take some time to relax! Watching movies and taking a bubble bath are some of my favorite ways to relax.

So, those are just some starter questions to some holiday break reflection that you might choose to have. Remember, just take this time to be with family, friends, and most importantly, yourself. College is stressful, but there are ways that you can make it less stressful! Enjoy some time off, you deserve it!