A perfectly hinged guide to making the most of your winter break

The temperatures are dropping, the sun comes up earlier, and we are entering one of the best times of the year: winter break! While we might all be tempted to throw in the productive towel and cuddle up in bed like a cinnamon roll, winter break is the perfect time to achieve some goals.

1. Chase your interests

Use this break to go all-in on your interests. Whether it’s writing the next great novel, creating art to match Van Gogh, coding a website, or finally starting that YouTube channel, this is your chance to level up. Lucky for you, all UTS students have access to LinkedIn Learning online resources and tutorials to help you make progress.

2. Give back and volunteer

Spread the good vibes! Winter break is a prime time to give back to your community. Check out local volunteer gigs that match your interests, like helping out at shelters, organising donation drives, or getting involved in eco-friendly projects. Not only will you make a positive impact, but you’ll also gain valuable skills and build your network.

UTS has a number of local initiatives you can get involved in, including HELPS buddies and the UTS Soul Award.

3. Expand your knowledge 

Winter break is perfect for learning something new. Dive into the online courses, tutorials, and educational platforms that catch your eye. Whether it’s mastering a new language, learning a musical instrument, or delving into an intriguing subject, you’ll not only level up but feel accomplished too.

UTS partners with Forage to offer a number of fantastic virtual internships, which you can access here.

4. Connect with your peers

Use this break to link up with your friends that you haven’t seen in a while. Organise get-togethers, game nights, or binge-watch marathons. Building those connections and making memories with your people is what it’s all about. Those meaningful convos and activities with your loved ones bring pure joy and support during this break.

ActivateUTS have over 180+ clubs for you to join if you want to start building those lasting relationships.

5. Enter the digital world

Okay, this one might be a bit of a shoo-in, but we are entering a new and scary world of technology. Don’t worry, UTS is here to help you navigate our technological future with UTS TechFest. Come along to one of the many showcases, like the Student Games Showcase, competitions, such as WXSTEM’s Lego competition, the iOS Hackathon, or workshops in drones, game engines, and more. UTS Careers is holding a networking evening and a number of industry panels for you to come along to, as well!

You can explore Tech Fest Events here. 

I will end this blog in the wise words of Bella Swan*:

“About three things I was absolutely positive. First, winter break is the best time to achieve all my goals. Second, all UTS students should attend TechFest. And third, Edward is a vampire.”

*Bella Swan technically never said this

Featured image courtesy of Unsplash