It won’t be long before the first stress-free breath can be taken since the end of syllabus week. Finals will be over, and everyone will be bundling up to take what they won’t need for the spring semester back home.
Well, almost everyone.
An unfortunate few are registering with LU Residence Life to request permission to stay on campus during the month-long break from classes.
When I found out I was going to be one of those students left behind on a deserted campus, one far different from the typical bustling Loyola, I was less than thrilled.
After a long semester spent juggling classes and extracurriculars, I would only be able to rest in a squeaky dorm bed for another two weeks after I finished my last final. And while Loyola quickly felt like my home away from home, even Sully the therapy dog couldn’t quench the longing to hug my own pup again.
However, rather than dwelling on the downsides, I chose to appreciate the gift a couple more weeks alone on campus was giving me: the rest I had long desired.
No longer will I have to wake up early for my 8 a.m. classes or fight for a seat during DeNobili’s Wednesday Wing Nights.
Finally, I would have the chance to trek to one of the beaches surrounding Loyola’s campus and crack open a book without worry that I should really be studying instead.
As for having to stay on a less busy campus, it sounds practically like an introvert’s dream.
Everything laying quietly except the occasional rustle of a falling leaf or skittering of local wildlife is heavenly. The potential of a white Christmas to transform the West Quad into a winter wonderland and garnish the decorated tree in St. Ignatius Plaza with snow will be a sight to behold.
In a culture which often measures the value of a person based on how many hours they put into work, poor mental health and burnout can easily occur.
So, when a chance is given to pause some of life’s stressors, it’s important to take time and appreciate the calm.
Whether spending winter break at home or at Loyola, grab a warm blanket and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa. Luxuriate in the simplicity and freedom because spring semester is right around the corner with its own new challenges and milestones.