As students return to GCSU for the spring semester, many say winter break gave them the opportunity to reset after a demanding fall semester. Through travel, hobbies and time with family, students said stepping away from coursework helped them return to campus feeling refreshed and motivated.
For many students, winter break offered an opportunity to slow down from the fast pace of campus life. Without the pressure of exams and deadlines, students said the extended time off allowed them to focus on personal interests and return to school ready for the new semester.
One student said his break was centered around fun, relaxation and visiting his family and friends.
“Since school was out, it was nice to relax and just enjoy being home without worrying about classes or assignments,” said Joseph McKinley, a freshman business major.
He spent much of his break golfing and catching up with friends. McKinley said this is what made the break feel both enjoyable and low-pressure.
He also spent time with his family during the holidays. McKinley spent Christmas at his grandparents’ house before traveling to Florida to visit other relatives. While in Florida, he played pickleball, continued golfing and enjoyed the warm weather. He also spent time exploring local areas, trying out local restaurants and shops and celebrated New Year’s Eve with friends before returning to campus.
Vanessa Lodato, a junior public health major, said she spent her break baking, traveling and enjoying time away from school.
“At the beginning of break, I spent a lot of time baking different cookies for Christmas to make cookie boxes for my family and friends,” Lodato said.
After Christmas, Lodato traveled to Key West, Florida, where she spent a week visiting state park beaches and enjoying warmer weather.
“The man-made beaches were beautiful, and the water was amazing,” Lodato said.
She also took time to explore local shops and cafes downtown, enjoying the unique sights the city had to offer. Lodato added that walking around, seeing the shops and tasting local food made the trip feel special and memorable.
Kayla Kerce, a senior nursing major, said her break was important for resting after a difficult and demanding semester.
“I went on a cruise to the Bahamas and really enjoyed just relaxing and taking time off from studying,” Kerce said.
The cruise gave Kerce a chance to rest and step away from school for a while. She also spent time with family and friends, participating in holiday traditions such as baking.
“Spending time with my family and baking together made the holidays feel really special,” Kerce said.
Winter break served as a reset after a busy fall semester. Activities like baking, golfing, traveling and spending time with family and friends helped students relax and recharge. As the new semester begins, students are adjusting back into coursework, schedules and responsibilities. Many said the combination of rest, travel and time with loved ones helped them return to campus feeling refreshed and motivated for the spring semester.