One of the perks of having short breaks between terms is that you maintain all of your study habits, and retain more of the material you just learned. The challenge with having short break is how to fit in as much fun, travel, family time, etc., as possible. Another important thing to note is that during the last eight months of school at Cleveland, it is possible to treat patients during that time, which I would recommend doing. That means it is all the more important to enjoy the breaks while you can.
A few great ideas that students typically pursue over break are:
• Mission trips to Haiti/Dominican Republic over the winter break to treat locals in both countries
• Shadow doctors in the area to get a better understanding of how they want to practice when they graduate
• Focus on some hobbies like golf, reading, snowboarding/skiing or whatever else is seasonally appropriate
Personally, there are a number of things that I typically do to refresh myself during a break. I always make a point to see at least some of my family. My relatives live all across the country, so making trips during breaks is the only time that works for my wife and me to travel.
I also try to spend as much time as possible with my wife. During most class days, I am on campus from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those make for long days that I don’t get to spend as much time with my spouse as I’d like. So, I like to spoil her over breaks as a way to say thanks for being so understanding of my hectic schedule.
Lastly, I do my best to further my education over every break if I can. Whether it’s a weekend seminar, or listening to any of the wonderful podcasts out there, there are plenty of ways to be productive while class is out of session. I almost forgot (potentially) the best thing about breaks…going to sleep without having to set a morning alarm. That will always be special!
Ultimately, refreshing over our breaks will be different for each and every student. Hopefully this blog shed some light onto the typical break of a Clevelander and potentially gave some new ideas for breaks to come!
Taylor Frederick is a CUKC campus ambassador and student blogger sharing personal experiences and perspectives. Contact us at admissions@cleveland.eduto learn more about CUKC.
