As the fall semester comes to a close here at College of the Sequoias, students are in holiday mode.  After a long semester of coursework, jobs, and family responsibilities, many are ready for a well-earned break—whether that means traveling, relaxing, or catching up on sleep. 

For some students, the holidays are all about family. Several shared plans to fly or drive home to spend Christmas with relatives they do not get to see often during the school year. One student said she looks forward to “being in my pajamas all day, helping my mom cook, and watching cheesy holiday movies with my siblings.” Another mentioned that Christmas dinner is the biggest highlight, adding that their family tradition involves everyone bringing a homemade dish. Other students plan to use the break to work extra hours and save money for next semester. “I’m picking up shifts at work so I can afford my textbooks in January,” one student explained. With many students balancing full-time jobs and classes, the break is often a time to focus on finances rather than travel.  

Some students admitted their main plan is to simply rest. Between exams and assignments, exhaustion is common by the end of the fall term. “I plan to sleep in, clean my room, and not set an alarm for at least a week,” one student joked. Another added that they are excited to finally catch up on shows they started but never had time to finish. 

Whether it’s family gatherings, extra work shifts, or much-needed rest, students agree that Christmas break is a welcome pause before the spring semester begins. As one student summed it up, “No matter what, it’s just nice to breathe for a few weeks.”  

So may your stockings be packed to the brim and your Christmas tree shine like no other. And may you get a new pair of socks. Merry Christmas to you from the Campus Journal. Please be safe, stay warm, and make good decisions. And don’t forget to leave cookies out for Santa.