85% of Aralia Students Place in Top Writing Competitions
1. What is Spring Break?
Spring break is a much-anticipated week off from school, typically after the midterm period for high school and college students. It provides a break from academic responsibilities, allowing students to relax, recharge, and make the most of their time off.
History of Spring Break
The origins of spring break can be traced back to ancient Greece, where people celebrated the arrival of spring with a festival in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. These festivities, held in March, involved opening matured wines, dancing, and enjoying the season’s beauty.
In the United States, spring break as we know it began in the 1930s when college swim teams started traveling to Florida for training. Over time, this tradition evolved into a widely recognized break, with students usually traveling to beaches and other vacation destinations.
When is Spring break?
The timing of spring break varies depending on the institution, but it typically takes place in March.
How long is Spring break?
Spring break usually lasts for one week. However, depending on individual class schedules, some students may be able to extend their break by a few days.
2. What are Popular Spring Break Activities?
Travel
One of the most exciting ways to spend spring break is by traveling. The tradition of spring break travel dates back to college swim teams heading to Florida, and today, students continue to favor beach destinations such as Miami, Key West, Cancun, and the Bahamas. These locations offer sun, sand, and summer sports, making them perfect for unwinding and creating unforgettable memories with friends. However, not all travel has to involve the beach—many students opt for road trips, national parks, or even international destinations to experience new cultures, food, and adventure.
Relax and Unwind
After months of studying, exams, and meeting deadlines, spring break is the perfect opportunity to focus on self-care. Many students use this time to catch up on much-needed sleep, spend time with loved ones, or engage in stress-relieving activities like meditation, yoga, or a spa day. Others take advantage of the break to get back into a fitness routine, enjoy nature walks, or simply have quiet moments of reflection.
Join Social Events
Spring break isn’t just about relaxation—it’s also a great time to engage with your community and attend fun events. Schools and local organizations often host special activities such as volunteer opportunities, student showcases, career fairs, and networking events. Additionally, seasonal festivities like farmers’ markets, flea markets, and spring fairs offer an enjoyable way to socialize, discover new interests, and meet new friends.
Catch up on School Work
For those who prefer a productive break, spring break provides an excellent chance to catch up on assignments and stay ahead in coursework. With fewer distractions and deadlines, students can focus on completing projects, reviewing past material, and preparing for major exams like the AP, SAT, or finals. Setting aside time for academic work can help ease the stress of the last few months of the semester and ensure a strong finish to the school year.
College Planning and Touring
For high school students who haven’t got the time to start their college planning, you can use spring break to take important steps in the application process. This break is an ideal time to research potential colleges, build a college list, and draft application materials. Many students also take advantage of campus tours, which are often less crowded during this period, allowing for a more personal experience.
Learn Something New
If you’re looking to make the most of your time off, spring break is a great opportunity to learn something new. Whether it’s an academic skill like improving essay writing or picking up a new coding language, or a personal interest such as photography, cooking, or music, there are endless possibilities. You can enroll in an online course, attend a local workshop, or simply explore new hobbies through books and video tutorials. Expanding your skill set not only makes your break more fulfilling but can also contribute to personal growth and future opportunities.
Improve your GPA and Prepare for Big Exams during Spring Break with Aralia
From GPA improvement courses like Biology or English Literature, to test prep courses for AP/IB exams, we’ve got you covered. Aralia offers various programs to help students excel in their studies, explore new interests, and prepare for college. Spring break is also a time when many international competitions, like the John Locke Essay Competition or Harvard International Review Academic Writing Contest, are open. If you are interested in joining global competitions, check out Aralia’s prep classes and join hundreds of our students to win medals and awards every year.
With Aralia’s flexible schedule and online format, students can continue learning and expanding their knowledge even during spring break. Get in touch with us to learn more about our award winning instructors, who are teachers and professors from top US high schools and universities.
3. Tips for Safe Travel During Spring Break
Whether you’re heading to a beach destination, another country, or simply taking a road trip, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind for a worry-free vacation:
Book your travel through trusted websites: While low prices can be appealing, many scam travel websites exist online. To avoid fraud, always book your flights and hotels through reputable platforms. If possible, make reservations directly through the official websites of airlines, hotels, or trusted travel agencies.
Travel with a group of friends: If you’re planning to visit an unfamiliar place—especially in another country—traveling solo may not be the safest option. Going with a group of friends ensures that you have people to rely on in case of emergencies. Plus, traveling with friends makes the experience more enjoyable and memorable!
Pay attention to important documents: It is essential to keep track of crucial documents like your ID, passport, and, for international students, an I-20. Losing these documents can create serious travel complications. Always store them securely in a hotel safe or in a locked section of your luggage. Carry photocopies or digital backups in case of emergencies.
Share your travel plan with family: Unexpected situations can arise during travel, so it’s important to keep your family informed. Let your parents or a trusted person know your travel itinerary, including your destination, accommodation details, and expected return date. This way, they can assist you if needed.
Be extra careful if you go to a different country: While destinations like Mexico, the Bahamas, and other tropical beaches are popular for spring break, they also require extra caution. Language barriers, unfamiliar surroundings, and tourist scams are some of the risks you should be aware of.
Bring a portable phone charger: A fully charged phone is essential when traveling. You don’t want to get lost in a strange neighborhood because your phone is out of battery. Carry a portable charger to ensure you always have access to your phone when needed.
No matter how you choose to spend your spring break, the key is to make it meaningful and enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling, relaxing, learning, or socializing, this time off is a chance to reset and return to school feeling refreshed and motivated.
