1L of a Blog Series: Winter Break

Welcome to law school! This is a biweekly series with tips and tricks for success in law school. We’ll cover things like time management, outlining, preparing for exams, and more! Although this series covers skills and tricks that might be new to 1Ls, I hope that every member of the law school community can find something helpful here.

You’re (almost) through final exams, but now I’m posting a blog about winter break – what more could I ask you to do?

Relax! This blog isn’t going to demand you do anything other than enjoy your time off. Some of you may be feeling post-exam anxiety, but you likely won’t know your grades until early next year. Here are some tips and ideas to relax and destress over the winter break so you’re refreshed for next semester!

1. Avoid the law

Dwelling on your exams won’t change anything. You put in the work all semester and gave it your best shot during the exam. It’s out of your hands at this point. You’ve been thinking about law non-stop for months, and winter break is your opportunity to (re)discover the non-law-related things you love! You don’t need to dive into your new subjects until you get closer to the spring semester, so take some time to avoid all things law.

If you find you can’t stop yourself from thinking about your exams, you can try techniques like journaling to ease your anxiety. And, of course, don’t hesitate to seek mental health services if needed.

2. Spend time with loved ones

Since you’ve been so focused on final exams for the last few weeks, I’m guessing you haven’t been able to connect with family and friends as much as you’d like. Now is the time to fill that void! Spend time relaxing with loved ones talking about anything other than law school. Play games, try a new restaurant, see a movie – anything to absorb their company. Just be careful of that one relative who’s going to ask for legal advice…you’re not a lawyer yet!

3. Catch up on your favorite shows

Did you (wisely) avoid binge-watching that new show while you were studying for exams? Good news! You can watch it now! Your brain has been working hard all semester, so some mindless tv or a movie is a perfect addition to a relaxing break. Just make sure you’re also remembering to sleep, eat, and move periodically!

4. Get creative

Law school is taxing on the analytical part of your brain, so winter break is a great time to release your creativity! Crochet a scarf, bake a cake, paint a landscape – whatever strikes your fancy. Whether you already have a craft or want to try a new one, get those creative juices flowing.

In a few weeks, I’m going to encourage you to start preparing for the spring semester in advance of the first day of classes (you’ll at least want to do your reading), but right now you have time to relax. Do the things that you enjoy and will rejuvenate you before next semester. Assuming you’re going to the workforce after law school, this is probably one of your last winter breaks – take full advantage of it!

(Dayna Smith)