10 Things To Do Over Winter Break

It's the most wonderful time of the semester

by Devan Ellison

Ahhhh, finally! The time has come where the textbooks get put away, the stress levels drop, the hours of sleep rise, and the students rejoice. There is no denying that winter break is the ultimate motivation to make it through the intense, final weeks of the semester. However, since we are used to a jam-packed schedule, having so much downtime can leave us not knowing what to do with ourselves. Here are 10 ideas to try over the break:

1. Go Ice Skating
Whether you're a pro on the ice or you’re not even sure you could get the skates on properly, it’s bound to be a good time. Go with a group of friends or ask that special someone you’ve wanted to get to know better — maybe you’ll get to hold their hand (you know, for balancing purposes #winkwink).

2. Road Trip
California gives us so many scenic routes to get lost on and a backdrop for Instagram-able         moments. Grab some buddies, clear your schedule for a few days, and cruise along the coast. Not sure what spots to hit? Check out some ideas.

3. Have a Bonfire

Let’s face it — winters here in sunny SoCal aren’t too brutal. However, they do get chilly enough to have a bonfire. Why not combine that cozy bonfire feel with the enchanting sound of crashing waves? Bolsa Chica State Beach is a great place to gather around a fire pit. Be sure to pack plenty of wood, blankets and s’mores.

4. Apply For Your Dream Internship
No harm in getting ahead! Internships are a great way to gain experience in your desired field. They’re also great resume builders. Check out indeed.com and monster.com to help you chase that dream job.

5. Binge Watch Classic Holiday Movies
Elf. Home Alone. How The Grinch Stole Christmas. A Christmas Story. A Nightmare Before Christmas. Should I keep going?

6. Play in the Snow
Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are great local spots to see some snow! They’re close enough to make a day trip out of it. They’re also a great place to go skiing, snowboarding, or sledding whether you’re a beginner or the next Shaun White.

7. Take a Class on Lynda.com
Have you met Lynda? Well, she’s the best. This website is a great way to learn new, relevant skills! You could take courses in web development, photography, design, business, and so much more. There’s a plus— as a CSULB student, you have free access to these course through CSULB Single Sign-On.

8. Volunteer
There’s no greater feeling than giving back. Do whatever you can to help those in need.

9. Create an Amazing LinkedIn Page
A killer LinkedIn page is vital nowadays. With no assignments, tests, or papers looming over your head, take a second to invest in yourself! Make a LinkedIn page that will put you above the rest. Side note: that class you took on Lynda.com will show up on your page as a certification #FTW.

10. Rest!
Because the semester was hard and you deserve it!