By Jenny Brooks, College of Arts and Sciences
It’s nearly the end of fall term, which means it’s almost winter break!
But before you get there, you have some big events to get through.
- First is registration for winter classes, open Nov. 16-25.
- Then you have finals the week of Dec. 7.
- Lastly, you have a break.
Consider the following tips to maximize the last few weeks of fall term so you can enjoy your break and come back energized for winter term.
1. Schedule your winter classes on your terms
Are you thinking winter is a good time to stack up on credits because it’s rainy and gray, and you’ll be indoors anyway?
Warning: A heavy course load can make for a long winter term and especially tough midterm and finals periods.
Aim for balance. Mix a few demanding courses with courses that fill a different bucket for you, like creativity or getting outside. Also, try to balance extras like labs and discussion times so you don’t have too many in one term.
Meet with a CAS academic advisor to audit the courses you’ve taken and the courses you want to take. See how they stack up against your requirements. Now is the time to book before late-term appointments fill up.
- Book in Navigate using your major.
- If you don’t see an appointment available, plan for drop-in advising , especially during weeks 8 and 9.
2. Set yourself up for finals
First it’s Thanksgiving and then it’s finals. Don’t let the time evaporate. Spend an hour or two mapping out exam dates and final due dates now. Pick the one or two classes that need extra attention and make a plan.
If you’ve never gone to faculty office hours, consider this your fall term challenge. Look in your class syllabus or your professor’s web page to find their available office hours. Pick the time that suits your schedule and send a note to let them know you’re coming (or schedule an appointment if required). This is a nice heads up for them and a tactic to commit yourself.
Struggling in any of your classes? Or want some extra support studying for a final? Take advantage of tutoring through the Tutoring and Academic Engagement Center . The TAEC, located on the fourth floor of Knight Library, helps UO students enhance their learning and success through tutoring, classes and workshops and individual consultations. You can get help with math, writing, foreign languages and so much more.
3. Remove any sense of dread
Don’t let any small tasks hang over your head during winter break. Before the term ends:
- Clear any registration holds
- Review financial aid and tuition deadlines
- Return library books and equipment
Make a plan for when you’re returning and what you’ll need to do to prepare for the start of winter term.
4. Make rest a priority
Once winter break starts for you, unplug for at least the first few days after finals. Prioritize sleep, see family and friends, and do nothing productive on purpose. The last couple of weeks of fall term will demand a lot of you, and you deserve time to recover.
When you’re feeling recharged, get outside. If you’re staying in Eugene, remember the mountains and the ocean are both only an hour away. Go to the coast and soak up the therapeutic sounds of the ocean, head to the snow for cross-country skiing, take a winter hike.
Don’t let a lack of equipment get in the way. The UO Outdoor Program rents snowshoes, skis and rain gear for students.
If outside isn’t your thing, take in the music and arts scene in Eugene or your hometown. Book a concert or walk through an art museum.
Engage in activities that make you feel energized and like yourself.
5. Balance winter courses with rest
If you signed up for a winter course, treat it like a part-time job. Spend two to three focused hours and then protect the rest of the day. Try to front-load the work as much as possible so the end of break stays free.
BONUS: When you meet with an advisor, confirm the winter course counts toward requirements!
Make it work for you
Between jobs and traveling and family obligations, winter break looks different for every student. Make the most of your winter break with rest and relaxation, and you’ll be ready for a successful winter term.