Because “winging it” is not a strategy. 🦃
Thanksgiving Break is right around the corner, and we know you’re counting down the days until rest, family, and food that doesn’t come from the campus dining hall. But before you toss your backpack in a corner and disappear into mashed-potato bliss, take a few minutes to set yourself up for success. These college student Thanksgiving break tips will help you finish the semester strong and stress-free.
1. Check Your Grades (For Real)
Don’t let end-of-semester surprises ruin your holiday mood. Log in, check your grades, and make sure everything is up to date. If something looks off—or you’ve been “meaning to email your professor”—do it now. It’s better to fix it before finals week hits.
2. Register for Spring Classes
Class registration can sneak up fast, and the good ones fill up even faster. Double-check your schedule, meet with your advisor if needed, and get registered before you head home. Future-you will be grateful. This is one of the most practical college student Thanksgiving break tips you can follow—because nobody wants to be stuck with an 8 a.m. class in January.
3. Handle Your Money Moves
Budgeting isn’t glamorous, but it’s necessary. Before you pack your bags, take a few minutes to check your work hours for the break.
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If you’re staying in town, see if you can pick up extra shifts and make some extra money for the holidays.
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If you’re traveling home, make sure you’ve requested time off so you don’t risk losing hours or upsetting your supervisor.
Also, confirm that your FAFSA and financial aid info are up to date for next semester. (Need help? Reach out to your Persist coach—we got you!) Managing your money before break helps you return with fewer worries and more focus.
4. Pack Smart and Plan Ahead
If you’re leaving campus, remember essentials like chargers, medication, and important documents. Also, clean out your mini-fridge before you go—no one wants to come back to science experiments in December. A little prep now goes a long way later.
5. Rest, Reflect, and Recharge
Thanksgiving is about more than turkey and naps. Take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come this semester. You’ve made progress, faced challenges, and grown more than you realize. Celebrate that, and get the rest you need to finish strong. Of all the college student Thanksgiving break tips, this one might be the most important: don’t forget to take care of you.
✨ Bonus tip: Tell your Persist coach what you’re most thankful for this semester—we’d love to hear it!