By: Alyssa Tippens
It’s finally here; the magical time of year we’ve been counting down the days until-- Spring Break. The long winter days have been pretty excruciating, so it’s only natural to jump at the chance to lay your responsibilities aside for a while. But before you fly off to sunshine filled lands, (or simply hide away in your room and binge on your favorite movies), there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to maximize your chances of a successful vacation.
Sunscreen is key
If you’re anything like me, you have the uncanny ability to repress all the memories you’ve accumulated over the years of terrible burns, sun poisoning fiascos and overall failed attempts at getting a tan. If this sounds like you; do yourself a favor and just buy some sunscreen for once. You’ll still be able to reduce your pastiness, and stay healthy at the same time. Bad sunburns exponentially increase the risk of skin cancer later in life, and no tanning attempt is worth the problems that go along with it. Not to mention the terrible, terrible experience of taking the trip home with a bad sunburn (been there, done that).
Have an adventure
Spring break shouldn’t be all about parties and late nights. If you’re lucky enough to travel somewhere interesting over break, make sure you make the most of it and explore everything your vacation spot has to offer! If you’re near the ocean, try snorkeling or windsurfing! If you’re in a more mountainous terrain, try some skiing, mountain biking, or hiking. Whatever you do, make sure to try something new. The best spring breaks you can have are the ones in which you seize opportunities that allow you to step outside of your comfort zone.
Look out for others
Wherever you go for spring break, make sure to always be looking out for your friends. (And everyone else, for that matter.) The buddy system is a tried-and- true way of staying safe, so don’t let a friend wander off in a strange place. You may be a grown up now and consider yourself responsible enough to navigate your way through a foreign place, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. On that same note, make sure to always have your phone fully chargedbefore you make your way out for the day. If you do get lost, at least you’ll have your trusty GPS to help you find your way home.
Stay ahead of the curve
While it’s tempting to completely forget all school-related matters over break, try to challenge yourself to get ahead on at least one assignment during your time off. It really won’t be as painful as it sounds (still trying to convince myself of this). If you’re stuck at home, you might as well make the most of your free time. You’ll feel super accomplished and prepared to take on the rest of the semester.