How to have a productive mid-semester break

After nine long weeks of classes we have finally made it to the mid-semester break. Now, that is going to mean different things to different people. For some it’s an opportunity to get on top of uni work, for others it’s a week of Netflix, a week of travel or the chance to work and make some extra money.

The key to having a successful mid-semester break is balance. I know you’re probably sick of people telling you to find balance, however if you do, you’ll emerge from the other side of mid-semester break feeling refreshed and ready for another four weeks of classes.

So how can you manage to relax, socialise, study, work and get ahead on a few assignments all in one week?

Make a list

Writing lists is either something you love doing or hate the thought of. No matter your stance on list writing, mid-semester break is the perfect time to start jotting down your plans. Start by thinking about tasks that are non-negotiable and have to be completed. As a general rule, put any university related work first, this way you can get the hard work over and done with before taking some time to relax.

Prioritise

If you write a list and come to realise that there is way too much you want to achieve, start to think about what is more important to finish. If you’re like me, your initial thoughts are to attempt to have drafts for every assignment left for the semester completed by the end of the break. This is simply not possible. Look at when things are due and think rationally about what can be completed and work from there.

Remember to actually take a break

If possible, try to schedule at least one whole day that is dedicated to just relaxing and doing something you love. Self-care is so important while you’re at university. You have to give your brain a rest to help maintain good mental health and keep your body preforming at its best. Whether you take your dog to the beach, go hiking, lay on the couch watching Netflix or hang out with friends, take a day to relax your brain and let it re-energise for the second half of semester.

Try some new study spaces

Staying at home every day for an entire week can get incredibly boring, even when you’ve got plenty to do. For those who live too far from campus to venture out just for study purposes, it is time to try some new study locations. Try your local library (the library’s around the Gold Coast and Brisbane are wonderful) for a peaceful setting. Or if you just need to get out of the house and have contact with other human beings try a restaurant or café. Plus, you can take some nifty study photos for Instagram.

Most importantly, pat yourself on the back for making it through nine weeks of semester. You have studied hard for two months straight and definitely deserve this break.

Thanks for reading! – Hayley

Image 1: CollegeDegrees360, Flickr Creative Commons
www.flickr.com/photos/83633410@N07/7658278494

Image 2: Studying outside Gleeson by danisabella,Flickr Creative Commons
www.flickr.com/photos/danisabella/3967606805