Winter break is almost here — the ultimate season of cozy sweatpants, hot chocolate, and maybe a little binge-watching of your favorite show. But let’s be real: between finishing application tasks and enjoying holiday fun, your brain can feel like it’s juggling flaming snowballs.
So here’s a simple guide to make the most of your winter break. With a little strategy, you can get things done, still enjoy your break, and avoid that last-minute panic.
1. Start With a Quick “Brain Dump”
Instruction: Before your break begins, write down everything in your head — deadlines, essays, tasks, worries, and even fun things you want to do. Seeing it all on paper instantly reduces stress and gives you clarity.
Example:
- “Finish the regular Common App essay… before my cat sits on the keyboard again”
- “UK Personal Statement draft (without crying)”
- “Art portfolio update (maybe add glitter?)”
- “Bake cookies for family”
- “Finish that book I started in October (whoops)”
This step helps make the chaos in your mind look like a list that you actually can handle, giving your brain a break!
2. Pick Your “Big 3”
Instruction: From your brainstormed list, choose three main goals for winter break. Focus on these, and everything else becomes optional. This keeps you productive without feeling overwhelmed.
Example:
- Complete your US Common App essay
- Draft your UK Personal Statement
- Update your portfolio or resume
By focusing on only three, you make real progress while leaving plenty of room for rest and fun.
3. The 2–Hour Productivity Rule
Instruction: Now that you have your priorities, work in 2-hour blocks, 2–3 times per week. After each session, stop and reward yourself — rest, snacks, hobbies, or Netflix.
Example:
- Monday (9–11am): US Common App essay — brainstorm a new opening paragraph about your volunteer trip last summer, type up your reflections, and make notes for your conclusion, all while sipping hot chocolate.
- Wednesday (2–4pm): UK Personal Statement draft — outline your essay about leadership in school clubs, draft two paragraphs about your academic interests, and highlight sentences to revise later, playlist on for focus.
- Friday (6–8pm): Portfolio / resume updates — scan through your art portfolio, select your top 3 pieces, write brief descriptions, and update your extracurricular section on your resume; reward yourself with a short walk or favorite snack afterward.
Don’t be greedy! Short and focused sessions prevent burnout and keep your break guilt-free.
Need a little advice or want someone to take a look at your winter break plan? We’ve got you!
CIS Counseling Office: CIS Campus, Room 312.
IvyPrep University Lounge: CIS Campus, 1st Floor (Next to Admission Office)
Online Appointment: Book here.
