As this Friday approaches, excitement at the prospect of a week off becomes increasingly more pronounced. Every student seems to be waiting impatiently for spring break.
To most of us, spring break is a great opportunity to sleep in and relax before we have to come back and push through to the end of the semester. But whether you’re spending your time in a warm climate, just going home to visit family, or even staying in Troy for the week, we hope you’ll heed our advice to have a safe and productive break.
We often hear about students on break being abducted or going missing, so be extra cautious if you are traveling. If you’re hitting up the beach, taking a cruise, or just visiting old friends, remember to tell your family and friends about the specifics and leave them emergency contact information too. In unfamiliar places, be sure to lock your hotel room door and travel in groups. Make sure that you watch out for your friends during your trip, and hopefully they’ll do the same for you.
Always be responsible with alcohol. If you choose to drink, never take your eyes off your beverage or take one from someone you don’t know. Avoid bringing any valuables with you, but be sure to take identification and important documents, especially when traveling abroad.
While these thoughts may seem like common sense, the reality is that there are people looking to take advantage of unsuspecting students who are unfamiliar with their location. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
While it’s important to relax over spring break, remember to use your time off wisely, and not just hibernate through it. This is your chance to catch up on homework or work on a project or assignment that is due after you get back. Be sure to balance the fun you have with a certain amount of productivity.
Most importantly, though, however you choose to spend break, have a safe, enjoyable time and come back relaxed and ready to work.

