Winter break: a perfect time to catch up on sleep, eat wonderful meals with family and relax in front of the TV. These opportunities to recover from the stress of classes, homework and studying are important. But don't let your time away from the classroom impact all that you have been learning. Stay sharp by engaging your mind in different activities.
Take time to read
A book, news or sports articles or your favorite blog. A break from typical academic reading to focus on topics that you really enjoy can remind you why you like to read before textbooks and research papers become your major source of words again.
Tutor a younger student
Helping someone master a difficult math concept, memorize the periodic table or learn about your favorite subject can benefit you both. The student you spend time with gains from your knowledge while you get a chance to look at a topic from a different point of view. (You're the teacher now, not the student.)
Take an online class
If you're in college, you may be able to take an intensive online class or two over the winter break for credit. If you're in high school or your college doesn't offer online classes during the winter break, check out your local community college offerings for credit or look for free online learning opportunities where credit may not be offered but interesting topics may be available. Top colleges like Yale, Harvard and MIT offer access to prerecorded lectures and courses at no cost.
Work ahead
Do you have your syllabus and books for next semester's classes? Or do you know where you left off in a year-long class? Make good use of your down time by getting through some early reading and studying. Don't forget to take notes about what you're reading so that you can quickly refresh your memory when class starts back up in the new year.
Do something fun
Staying mentally sharp doesn't necessarily mean doing work. Challenge yourself with a puzzle, arrange a family game night or create a scavenger hunt filled with riddles and problems to solve for friends. Entertaining activities can stimulate your mind and be much more enjoyable than spending time answering practice questions.
Don't forget to exercise
Take your mind off school subjects by going for a walk, hitting a local basketball court with friends or trying your luck at an ice skating rink. Your mind and body will both thank you for some physical activity.
It's also never too early to think about how you will pay for college . Start by understanding the different types of financial aid. Consider your current financial situation and how you can supplement earnings and savings by applying for scholarships.
