7 Tips to Make the Most of Your Winter Break

Justice, a University of Waterloo student, shares her top tips for having a fantastic winter break.

This article was written for the University of Waterloo by Justice, a current student.

After months of classes, assignments, and exams, winter break is finally here — and you've earned it! This is the perfect chance to rest, recharge, and maybe even get a head start on what's next. Here's a few ideas of how you can make the most of your winter break!

1. Clear some mental space and declutter your physical space

A clear space makes for a clear mind. Why not use some time to tackle those things you've been putting off?

Donate clothes you no longer wear, organize your desk, clear out your inbox, unsubscribe from emails you don't read, and/or organize your files.

2. Get some much-needed rest

Your mind and body deserve a real break.

Catch up on sleep and give yourself permission to relax! Rest is how you recharge and be better prepared for everything that comes next.

3. Spend some time with friends and/or family

Breaks are the perfect opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the people who matter most. Take the time to visit friends or family you haven't seen in a while or simply give them a call to catch up.

Cherish these moments because the memories you create and the bonds you strengthen during these breaks are priceless!

4. Learn something new

This is a perfect opportunity to learn for fun — no grades or pressure attached! Learn a new recipe, try out a game, take a free online course, or read a book about a topic that interests you!

5. Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and meet great people. It also happens to look great on a résumé!

Look for opportunities at local food banks, libraries, animal shelters, or community centers. If you require volunteer hours for graduation, this can be a great time to work toward that requirement.

6. Start preparing for your next semester

Once you've recharged, you could use your break to set yourself up for success next semester!

Think about what has been going well over the past few months and what you'd like to improve. Maybe you want to get more organized, find a better study routine, or keep a healthier balance between school and social life. Setting even one or two small goals now can help you feel more motivated when classes start again.

How do you keep this motivation? That's a great question. We have a great article on how to cope with stress and stay motivated that may help you here.

7. Research more about universities of interest

Maybe you've already applied to university — or maybe you're still deciding where to apply.

If you haven't applied yet, deadlines are coming up soon! Take this time to explore universities that interest you and fill out those applications.

If you've submitted your applications, now's the perfect time to dig deeper into what life is like at your top schools. What's student life like? How's the surrounding city? Your research will help you choose when it comes time to accept an offer.

At the University of Waterloo, our student blog — the Missing Manual — is a great place to start. You'll find tips on applying, insights into student life, and stories from real students who have been in your shoes.

If you'd like to get your questions answered directly from students or staff, we are hosting an application info session on January 8, 2026 at 8 a.m. or 8 p.m. ET.