Spring break is finally here! This semester is speeding by, and being able to spend a week out of class will provide a much needed break – emphasis on the word “break.” Whether you’re heading to the beach or staying at home, just enjoy yourself and appreciate the time off.

While some of you are probably packing those last-minute beach essentials, Ed Board would like to propose an idea: not partying too much over the break. While we’re all for enjoying yourself and having a fun and memorable vacation, just make sure it’s exactly that – memorable. Instead of stepping off the plane and immediately jumping into a week-long fiesta slash margarita, take some time off and just enjoy the beach and your beautiful surroundings. You’ll thank yourself on Monday morning.

If you’re heading home for spring break and have yet to make any specific plans, don’t worry – there’s plenty to do that doesn’t have to involve bikinis and frozen drinks. Take the week off to do things you’ve always planned to but just don’t have the time for between classes. Or, just kick back by the pool and pretend you’re at the beach, minus the crowds. Spend the week finding some activities that are both fun and relaxing.

Just because we have a week off from attending class doesn’t mean we have to go crazy. If you had a short break at your job, would you immediately hit up the bar for those 10 or 15 minutes? No, you would take that time to rest from whatever task you were working on and recharge your batteries to prepare for the work to follow that break. Spring break works in the same way. Take this week to just relax and prepare for the rest of the semester. That doesn’t mean you can’t still go out and have fun; just don’t go overboard so you won’t end up in need of a vacation after your vacation.