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Student Affairs

In Focus: Spring into Action: Make the Most of Your Spring Break at Stanford

As spring break approaches, the campus transforms into a canvas of possibilities for those who choose to stay. This period offers a unique opportunity to explore, engage, and enjoy the plethora of activities available at and around Stanford. Here is our guide to making the most of your downtime on campus, filled with free activities and strategies to overcome feelings of FOMO, ensuring a restorative and enriching break.

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3 Tips for Making the Most of Your Spring Break

  1. Engage in Cultural Exploration. Embark on a journey through Stanford's rich cultural landscape by visiting the Cantor Arts Center and the Anderson Collection (both offer complimentary admission to students). Engage in an interactive experience by participating in a scavenger hunt for the most captivating or perplexing artwork, fostering both fun and reflection. 
  2. Discover Stanford's Hidden Treasures. Exploring the beauty in nature of the Stanford campus provides a wonderful alternative to off-campus adventures, fostering a sense of belonging with the surrounding world. Venture through the Stanford Arboretum or take a reflective walk around the Dish. These excursions offer a perfect backdrop for mindfulness and personal rejuvenation. 
  3. Challenge Yourself: Embrace a Week of Firsts. Spring break need not be a hiatus from learning. Consider setting personal challenges for the break. Whether starting a new hobby, exploring an unfamiliar part of campus, or making a new acquaintance, strive to enrich your break with meaningful "firsts."

Embracing the Moment: Strategies to Overcome FOMO

It's easy to feel left out when not traveling or joining in on seemingly grand escapades during spring break. If you find yourself experiencing FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), check in with yourself on what you need and consider incorporating these strategies:

  • Initiate and Engage. Take the lead in organizing small gatherings or activities. Whether it's a leisurely picnic, open-air movie night in the Oval, a sports meet-up, or a group study session, your initiative can transform a quiet campus into a vibrant community hub. 
  • Limit Social Media Use. Consider reducing your social media consumption to fully immerse yourself in the present circumstance. This break from digital life can significantly enhance your well-being and allow for a deeper connection with the immediate world around you.
  • Value Solitude. Leverage the tranquility of the campus during the break to engage in mindful reflection. Practices such as journaling, meditating, or quiet contemplation can foster a sense of inner peace and clarity, offering a refreshing contrast to the usual pace of academic life. Use this time to delve into personal interests, or simply enjoy the peace of solitude, all of which contribute to personal growth and self-awareness.

Let's collectively transform the concept of FOMO into a celebration of JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out), embracing the opportunities for connection, exploration, and personal growth that lie before you. We wish you a spring break filled with discovery, joy, and the creation of cherished memories!

Written by: Jaden Abas, Class of 2025

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