Eric's Tip of the Week: Thanksgiving Break and the Emotional Tolls

Hey Everyone! Thanksgiving break is coming up in a few weeks, and for some of you, it might be your first time going home this semester! Thanksgiving break can be a very emotional time between seeing family, explaining how you manage to live in a 11x12 room, and explaining to your parents what you plan on doing in college. Here are some ways to prepare for the trip home and the trip back!

1) Explaining To Your Parents You Are Undeclared:
  We all have that fear about our parents and grandparents asking us,"What are you majoring in? What is that going to do for you when you graduate?" This can be particularly scary for undeclared students. I don't blame you: I was in your shoes when I was undeclared. But here is the thing, BEING UNDECLARED IS NOT A BAD THING! Many people at UMass are undeclared and around 80% of declared students change their major! You can tell them what classes you like, and let them know you are receiving help and exploring many different major possibilities along the way! At our site we have a sheet that relates interest to majors. Check that out and if your parents ask show them it! The more you prepare to answer those awkward questions the more impressive you will look! Also check the UMass website to explore your desired major and see not only what that major entails, but also if it sounds interesting to you.

2) Try To Enjoy The Thanksgiving Break, but Not Too Much:
  It is nice to hear that you have a 4-day break, but that doesn't mean that once it hits school is over. Classes are going to start the next Monday after as if you didn't have a break at all! Don't fall out of the rhythm! You can enjoy the break and still keep sharp with school. Try to stay motivated to keep up with your work. Keep in contact with your roommate and new friends here and ask how they are doing. Thanksgiving is a nice break in the semester but it doesn't mean it's over yet!

3) The Journey Back:
  Some people have a hard time leaving home to go back to school again. They don't want to leave their warm house and pets to go back to a small dorm room, but it has to happen. You still have to finish the semester and get through finals. You have come so far already this semester and have situated yourself in the UMass community. Your parents will be proud to see you overcoming your fear and pushing through the hard times to get where you have to be. If you found the strength to move in on day one, then you can come back after Thanksgiving break!

But Thanksgiving is more than eating, Chuck. You heard what Linus was saying out there. Those early Pilgrims were thankful for what had happened to them, and we should be thankful, too. We should just be thankful for being together. I think that's what they mean by 'Thanksgiving,' Charlie Brown. -Marcie