For many students studying abroad, the idea of a "Christmas break" sounds like a much-needed pause. But the reality? Christmas break is often anything but a break. Read to find out more!
Going home for Christmas break
Going home for the break does sound amazing. Seeing your friends and family again, eating all of your grandma’s delicious food, playing with your pets again! But the truth is… you won’t have all the time for that. Why? Because most colleges don’t use Christmas for a vacation, most students have exams after the break. So, most of the break time, you will find yourself studying late, so you can enjoy the day with your loved ones, for example.
If you’re planning on heading home for the holidays, you’re not alone in feeling like your break might be anything but relaxing. But don’t worry—there are ways to handle these struggles and truly make the most of this time.
Some tips
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No time for everything: One of the biggest challenges students face when they come home for Christmas is the pressure to spend time with everyone. It’s as if your family expects you to make up for all the months of absence in a few short weeks. First, recognize that it’s impossible to catch up on everything. Instead of trying to please everyone, prioritize meaningful moments. Communicate your feelings with your family—explain that while you’d love to spend all your time with them, you also need moments to study. Create a balance between socializing and having some time for your studies.
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The “things have changed” feeling: Let’s be honest, people change with the new routine, friends, and environment. Coming home, sometimes, can sometimes feel strange. Your routine, friends, and environment have shifted while you were abroad. There’s the feeling that maybe you’ve outgrown certain things or that you don’t quite fit in as you once did. But it’s normal. You can still cherish your roots while creating new connections and traditions. It’s okay to allow yourself to grow and transform during your time abroad—it doesn’t mean you’re abandoning home; it means you’re bringing something new back with you.
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Juggling the festivities and studies: In between the festivities, you might need to catch up on your studies. Be proactive in planning your study schedule. Set aside time for both study and holiday relaxation. Remember, it’s okay to skip a few parties or family events if it means staying on top of your academic work. But its also okay to not study one day to be with your family. It’s all about balance.
Take a day at a time
While Christmas break may not always feel like the relaxing getaway you envisioned, it’s still a time for connection, reflection, and recharge. Don’t let the challenges weigh you down—embrace them as part of the process of returning home after living abroad. Be kind to yourself, make time for self-care, and celebrate the chance to share your experiences with those you love. Christmas might not be a “break” in the traditional sense, but with the right mindset, it can still be a fulfilling and meaningful time.
Have a Merry Christmas and good luck on your exams!