Spring Fever: Balancing Work and Play
The sun is shining, birds are chirping and the weather is getting warmer every day. We sprang forward with daylight saving time and spring semester is quickly passing. Warmer weather means planning more outdoor activities on campus and around Richmond. Places like Belle Isle and Maymont come to life again in the spring and are enjoyed by people of all ages in the city.
If it has been a while since your student has seen a sunny day, encourage him or her to go enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. This time of year is great for taking a study break and walking outside, but it also can be tempting to let go of all responsibilities and enjoy the outdoors, festivals and other events a bit too much. While it’s great to be able to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh air, it’s important students find balance between work and play. Here are some tips to help your student stay on track while still taking time to enjoy the weather.
Include free time in the calendar.
Students should review their syllabi and mark out important dates for the rest of the semester — from classes, tests, final exam times, to presentations and important due dates. They also can block out specific times that are just for studying and getting work done. Encourage your student to schedule some free time as well. Sticking to these schedules allows students to enjoy both the sunshine and academic success.
Take it outside.
One of the greatest pleasures of Richmond during the spring semester is simply being outdoors. Students can fully charge their laptops, fill their backpacks with books and snacks, and grab a blanket to study and work outside. This can help the feeling of being isolated from all of the fun to be had outside. VCU’s campus is full of great places to get the best of both worlds. There are courtyards and patios for almost every residence hall and Monroe Park is a great place to have a picnic study session with some friends.
There will be more sunny days.
When nice days first begin, it can feel like this is a student’s one and only chance to be active; however, the great thing about Richmond is that there is always another sunny day around the corner. Students can plan their pickup football game or walk to Carytown when they aren’t supposed to be in class or to take a break from studying.
Categories Advice for Students & Families