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10 ways to make your spring break epic

For many high school students, spring has sprung and relaxation has begun. For many, spring break is an opportunity for students to relax, catch up on Netflix, and prepare for the semester ahead. Although the time should be used for mentally recharging for the next round of school, you can also make it a spring…
<a href="https://highschool.latimes.com/author/juliaschemmer/" target="_self">Julia Schemmer</a>

Julia Schemmer

March 28, 2016

For many high school students, spring has sprung and relaxation has begun. For many, spring break is an opportunity for students to relax, catch up on Netflix, and prepare for the semester ahead. Although the time should be used for mentally recharging for the next round of school, you can also make it a spring break to remember. Check out the top ten ways you can make your spring break count here!

  1. Read something. Having time to read for fun is rare, so take advantage of it. Whether you’re into fiction, nonfiction, or even comic books, take the time to expand your knowledge beyond what you are required to read in class. Bonus: many tests (including the SAT and AP Literature test) will have essays that ask you to draw from your readings. Now is the perfect time to pick a book that you genuinely enjoy to be able to pull from when the time comes for the test!
  2. Apply for scholarships. Take it from a broke college student: scholarships go a long way. This spring break, try applying for scholarships that will give you a leg up when it comes to applying and entering college. Most colleges ask for the same general essay format, such as who you are and what your goals are, so if you can write one strong essay that clearly defines your educational goals, you’ll be prepared.
  3. Hang out with friends. Although this might seem like a minute step, it is easy to become so wrapped up in activities and class that you neglect your BFFs. Whether it’s hanging out at the beach or going to the mall, make sure you are spending time with your best friends! Not only will it make you feel interconnected, but it is an ultimate destressor.
  4. Try going without social media for a day. Social media is great because it allows us to be more globally connected, but it is also problematic because many people forge their worth off of how many Twitter followers they have instead of who they are as an individual. It’s a fun challenge, and you’ll get full bragging rights if you can see the challenge through.
  5. Volunteer. Make the most out of your time by leaving a positive impact on your community. From cleaning up the local beaches to spending time at the animal shelter, volunteering is a great way to leave people and places in a better place than what you originally found them in.
  6. Spring clean. I don’t know about you, but when I get busy in school, my room’s cleanliness sometimes takes a toll. Now is the time to do a major closet haul, and get rid of (or hopefully donate!) what you no longer want to have in your room. Your parents will be oh-so-proud of you and your newfound orderly nature.
  7. Learn something new. It might be spring break, but the mind never rests. Whether it’s learning new phrases in a language you always wanted to master or a new dish to cook, use the break to pick up a new skill.
  8. Watch a classic. The best thing about movies is that they are constantly being made. Take time to watch one of the classics, like the Star Wars series or even Jurassic Park films.
  9. Get active. It is all too easy to spend spring break on the couch with popcorn and your favorite pajamas. Combat the laziness that is always so commonly associated with spring break, and instead get up, get moving, and have fun! Since it’s hot outside, be sure to drink enough water and to wear sunscreen.
  10. Start a LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is a great way to connect with future employers, even if you aren’t even thinking about work yet. All you need is an email account to begin, and ideally a professional looking photo of yourself. Update it like you would update your resume, detailing your latest projects, work, and accomplishments. If you start early, you will not regret it.

What are your plans for spring break? Let us know in the comments below!

Scholar-athlete Cody Going: off to Division 1

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