Enjoying a Needed Break!

Drake provides one major plus for students every year, a fall break. Fall break consists of a Monday and Tuesday off during October that provides for a four day weekend. No, this does not give Drake students more days off then other schools because these two days are ‘borrowed’ from Thanksgiving break. Most universities have a full week off for Thanksgiving break whereas Drake students just get three days off, the other two days go to the built in fall break in October; therefore, the amount of days off between schools evens out.

I think that most schools should implement a fall break because it provides the perfect amount of time for a mental break at a necessary time in the semester. By this time in the semester students have had midterms, have been working hard through the first few months and are in need of a longer weekend to mentally refresh themselves. Freshman have gotten used to college life and studies but need time to connect with family and friends back at home. Also most students, especially freshman, have not been home yet during the semester and are usually somewhat homesick if not yearning for a good home cooked meal. It is perfect timing, not too soon after the start of classes and not too late into the semester. Also the extra two days is just a long enough break to be home. You can get good food, wash your laundry, get some good attention and then leave before the chores start being requested, awkward, “so where is your life going” questions are asked, or your relaxation becomes termed ‘lazy’.

A week off for Thanksgiving is great but it really is not any more beneficial then just three days (Wed-Fri). Since you have a full week, your visit home becomes dull by the end for both the student and parents. The special attention and favorite meals disappear halfway into the week as the name lazy is reintroduced since your relaxation is longer cute but bothersome and you are expected to do more around the house.

I am enjoying fall break to the max by relaxing at home after a stressful week of midterms. Even though I am not vegging out in front of the television I appreciate every moment, since life doesn’t offer “fall break” once you get into the working world. Thank goodness I am not yet full time working and thank you Drake University.