Rachel Calvert’s 7 Tips for getting through winter break

1.       Be creative. It can be hard to stay active when it’s cold and the weather is bad. Find ways to keep moving  – it can be skiing, snowshoeing, or shoveling the driveway. As for you folks who live where it’s sunny all year long – no excuses!

2.       Be calm. If you’re spending break with your family, sometimes it can be difficult to transition from independent college life to living with your parents again. Try to remember that it’s difficult for them too. Polite, but honest communication is super important this time of year.

3.       Be warm. If it’s cold, dress appropriately. Flip flops and shorts are only cute if your toes aren’t getting frostbite.

4.       Be engaged. As welcome as winter break is for most people, by the end of December it can get pretty boring. Find ways to get involved in your community to keep things interesting!

5.       Be in touch. Technology is a wonderful thing! Skype, facebook, email, and cell phones are great resources to help you stay in touch with your school friends.

6.       Be healthy. It is definitely ok to have a Thanksgiving feast, fried latkes on Chanukah, Christmas cookies, Winter solstice pie, etc. Just make sure you keep your treats in moderation and enjoy some healthy food too! Whole grains, veggies, and fruits are great all year round.

7.       Be prepared. ‘Tis the season…for colds and coughs. Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin C, and consider getting a flu shot to keep away seasonal illnesses.

Rachel Calvert’s 7 steps to getting through finals – you can do it!

1)      Be rested. Get some sleep! You should be getting about 7 – 9 hours of sleep each night.

2)      Be nourished. Try ditching the junk food for some yummy, healthy dishes. Look for fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.

3)      Be active. Make time for physical activity every day to keep your mind and body energized. 

4)      Be prepared. Contact your professor, knowledgeable friends, or a tutor if you feel unsure about class material.

5)      Be wise.  It’s probably not a good idea to show up to your exam with a hangover.

6)      Be balanced.  Don’t study too much – make time for health and happiness!

7)      Be okay with where you are! Remember, you are not your grades. Just try your best.  Remind yourself of everything you HAVE learned and accomplished rather than worrying about what you haven’t.