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You have made it through the fall semester, well done! Finals are practically over, and you’re thinking of home – more importantly, rest and relaxation. Many colleges and universities across the country are preparing for a long winter break, some even spanning all the way til the end of January. Yes, it’s a much-needed break, but how can you spend all this free time?
If you are like us, always needing to be doing something fun, we’ve got some ideas for you! Take a look at these college winter break survival hacks that will prepare you for the long winter break.
Find a short-term job
We know this can be tricky because employers don’t want to hire somebody for such a short period. So, what can you do? If you have a summer job that you return to each year, call your boss early and ask if they need more help during the winter. Getting a job will be much easier if you have an existing relationship. The fact that you are familiar with the work will bode well for you.
Other great options are babysitting, house sitting, dog walking, or even snow shoveling. These jobs are not glamorous, but that only means people will pay you to do them! Also, check out sites like Upwork and Freelancer. If you don’t like the idea of a job, think about all the money you’ll have when you’re back at college!
Apply for scholarships and internships
This is a great time to sit down and get some applications done. Don’t waste your entire winter break applying for scholarships and internships, just use your time wisely. Devoting a few hours a week will be plenty of time – think of them as the hours you would usually be spending studying or hanging out with friends at college. Planning and organizing can make a world of difference. Organizing Your Scholarship Search has lots of great tips to get you started in your search for a great scholarship.
The same goes for your internship applications. Stay focused on your internship search throughout the year and try to get in early. Get online and read about what companies are looking for. Always try to stand out in your interview. If you want, try to organize a job shadow to learn about career prospects and do a little networking.
Take a trip
If you have some expendable cash, use your time away from college for a little holiday. This winter break is the perfect time to hit the slopes! There are so many great ski resorts scattered around the country. No matter where you live, there is somewhere close by. Don’t know where you should go? Head to Snowpak for all the best ski resort information. You could also try to find work at a ski resort so you can make some money and brush up on your skiing at the same time.
Do you have family in another state? Maybe you can stay with a friend? Visiting people will help you save cash on your vacation.
Take an online class
Why not get ahead with your studies? Most colleges and universities offer online classes throughout the entire year. This gives you the option to get a subject done from the comfort of your own home. Check if there’s a winter term class available. It will most likely cost extra money, but it’s great idea if you want to graduate a little early.
Volunteer locally
There are plenty of great things to do during a winter break, and one of them is helping others. You have many opportunities to get involved by volunteering during the break. Not only does it feel great to help others, but it can add a great point of difference to your resume. You may pick up a new skill, discover an interest, meet a new friend or even somebody that could give you a job in the future.
Remember, your winter break is what you make it. Don’t sit around the house and waste precious time. Get out there!
This article was contributed by guest author Savannah Wardle.
