Spring Break Plans: CDS Student Edition
With spring break just around the corner, it’s time to start preparing for your ultimate getaway or staycation. Amidst students’ busy schedules and campus life, this upcoming break offers a chance to unwind, explore, and create fun memories. If you’re still contemplating on how to make the most of your break, read on for thoughtful plans and advice from UIC Creative and Digital Services (CDS) students staff!
Gizelle - Marketing, Class of 2025
Student Marketing Assistant
Gizelle is enthusiastic about her spring break plans and traditions. Each spring break, she reconnects with family friends attending different schools to make lasting memories. This year, they plan on exploring different hiking trails and enjoying picnics together if the weather permits. She says, “It’s important to spend time with those who uplift your energy and contribute to a sense of well-being.” Additionally, Gizelle plans to dedicate time to “spring clean” and reorganize her living and work spaces. She views this as an essential step for preparing for finals season and that it’s important to create environments that promote comfort and productivity.
Christina - Marketing, Class of 2025
Student Marketing Assistant
Christina views spring break as an opportunity to rest and catch up on work. Weather permitting, she looks forward to enjoying a picnic outdoors with friends. One event she's particularly excited about is the Vintage House Market on March 23 and 24. Christina encourages prioritizing rest and connecting with nature, even if the forecast lacks sunshine—a practice she finds beneficial for mental health. To discover fun activities, she suggests checking social media for upcoming events. She says, “Make the most of your time by planning activities for each day wisely!” This allows Christina to balance work and leisure effectively, ensuring she's prepared for the final weeks of school feeling well-rested.
Maggie - Marketing, Class of 2025
Student Marketing Assistant
During spring break Maggie plans on taking some well needed rest from college life. She is excited to finally have time to hangout with friends and family. One bucket list item she expects to check off is watching Dune 2 with a friend. They have been anticipating the release for 3 years! Besides taking personal time, she plans on revisiting concepts in her coursework to strengthen her understanding of materials before finals arrive.
Rohan - Marketing, Class of 2025
Student Photographer
During spring break, Rohan plans to work during the day, and reserving his evening for personal enjoyment. Besides allocating well needed time for himself, he is particularly excited about watching newly released movies with his significant other. For UIC students staying in Chicago, he suggests seeking out fun activities occurring in the city. His biggest recommendation, however, is to use time wisely and avoid over planning throughout the week.
Vamsi - Computer Science, Class of Spring 2024
Student Photographer
Vamsi plans to spend his spring break here during his last semester before graduating. His plans include meditating, cooking, and enjoying walks in the improving weather while also focusing on personal projects. He's excited to work on a VR project displaying 300,000 stars in a 3D interactive space for a class project and to explore photography around downtown with other photographers. His recommendations for fellow students include exploring the city, dining at great restaurants, visiting the zoo, and taking advantage of free admission for UIC students to the Art Institute. His advice? Take this time to get ahead and have fun before the heat sets in!
Anup - Computer Science, Class of 2025
Student Assistant Video Producer
Anup is excited for his first spring break in the U.S., he opts to stay in Chicago and use the time to explore. If you’re also a newcomer to Chicago, Anup loves visiting iconic city spots like the riverwalk, suggesting to indulge in its views and architectural brilliance. As an art enthusiast, he particularly enjoys Van Gogh's "The Bedroom" painting at the Art Institute. As Anup continues to explore, he advises to seize opportunities and, “experience the warm sunlight and breezy winds at Lake Michigan during the spring.”
Leia - Computer, Class of 2024
Student Web Developer
Busy over the break? Leia anticipates spending her break working diligently and completing class projects with the extra time on her hands. This insight sheds light on the realities many students face during break as balancing work, school projects, and finding time for yourself can be challenging. Prioritizing work over leisure is a trend intensified by the demands of midterms season and/or senior year. With academic workloads weighing heavily, spring break provides time for students to have more time to work. However, it can also make leisure time seem scarce and eventually cause burn out. It’s important to recognize the significance of balance, acknowledging the importance of self-care amidst the pressures of being a student navigating work, school, and life.
Bonus
Students that are also Illinois residents can take advantage of the free seasonal events and museum days. Planning to stay on campus? Check out Dining Services’ Spring Break hours too. For more Spring Break ideas, check out UIClife on TikTok.
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From exploring Chicago to dedicating time to personal projects, every student has a unique approach to making the most of their break. Whether it’s remaining committed to productivity or being socially active, advocate for carving out moments in your schedule of both relaxation and enjoyment to unwind. Remind yourself of the value in finding a balance between work and personal well-being. Take advantage of your spring break to create amazing projects or have fun adventures, and come back ready to face the rest of the semester’s challenges.