In high school, winter break typically consists of staying up late on school nights with the friends you see every day, binge-watching Netflix and sleeping past noon any chance you get.

This year, however, was my first winter break as a college student. Winter break feels different than ever before. As I sit here with a week left of break, there are many things I wish I had time to do. Here are a few of my "must-do's" for each break to come.

1. First and foremost, spend time with your parents.

Take that extra trip to the grocery store with your mom and run some errands with your dad early Saturday morning. Time spent together is irreplaceable. I guarantee the minute you get back to the dorm, you're going to miss your mom's home-cooked meals and familiar hugs, and your dad's political discussions and reassuring voice.

2. Catch up with your high school friends.

There's something about the friends you get to know from your hometown that you can't find anywhere else. Spend time with your high school friends. Reconnect and update them on everything new in your life.

But...

3. Hang out with the people you genuinely want to see.

This isn't high school anymore. And you don't have to please everyone. Your time over break is restricted and should not be spent on people that don't hold value to your life anymore.

4. Get your body and health in check.

Do yourself a favor and hit the gym. Christmas break is the perfect opportunity to get yourself into a routine and work off those extra holiday pounds.

5. Connect with family.

Actually, engage in conversations with your family members during holiday meals. Chances are, they typically want to know more about you because they genuinely care. Even if you aren't feeling it, at least humor them with a smile or nod instead of ignoring them.

6. Do something nice for your parents.

Every little thing counts whether it's vacuuming the living room, or letting your dog out at night. Your parents will notice and will appreciate it immensely.

7. Feeling nostalgic? Be honest with yourself.

Going back home is extra weird around Christmas time. High schools are in session the first and last week of break. It's hard knowing you were in the same position just one year ago, but activities and life go on without your presence. Understand that you might miss it, but are in a much better place now.

8. Give back to others.

Donate your old clothes and toys. Many kids aren't as fortunate as us. Make somebody's Christmas by donating that really cute shirt from American Eagle that is two sizes too small, or those jeans you still wish you could fit into (cough** freshmen 15 **cough).

9. Remember the good ol' days!

Do something creative and a (little) childish. Cut out paper snowflakes, build a blanket fort, make a gingerbread house, or play MASH with your friends. Remind yourself of the simplicity you once lived in before you turned into a constantly crying college student.

10. Lastly, make unforgettable memories.

Don't sleep your days away while binge watching Friends for the third time. Those friends you used to see every day aren't there anymore. If your besties from senior year are around, go see them! You never know where you'll be a year from now.