Fall break is something that many students look forward to as a chance to recharge, catch up on rest and spend time with the people who matter most to them. For some students, it may be their first opportunity to return home since the semester started, especially for first-year students and those coming from out of state. As parents and families, you can help your student set realistic expectations for their time away from campus. While it can be tempting to want to fill every day with plans, encourage them to find a balance between spending time with loved ones and giving themselves time to relax.

If your student is heading home for fall break, encourage them to reconnect with friends and family that they may not have seen in a while. Activities like a movie night, a picnic, a draft day, or playing games together can make the break feel special without having a packed schedule. We know not every student can travel home, so those staying near campus have a few opportunities to explore, including the North Carolina State Fair, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of Art.

Whether your student is staying in Raleigh or traveling home, remind them that fall break is also an opportunity to take care of themselves. They might enjoy going for a walk on a local trail, trying a free workout class at Carmichael Gym, catching up on a favorite show, or simply getting some extra sleep. Personally, I plan to use fall break to rest, focus on some self-care and enjoy the hopefully nice fall weather. Sometimes, taking a step back from a busy schedule and spending time outside is exactly what I need to recharge. After several weeks of classes, assignments and exams, taking time to recharge can help students return to campus feeling refreshed and ready for the rest of the semester. A little downtime can be just as valuable as making plans with others.

As fall break approaches, encourage your student to make the most of their time in whatever way feels right for them. After all, there is no single right way to spend the break, and a little rest and connection can go a long way in helping students feel supported as they continue their college journey.  

I hope your student will have an amazing fall break!

Serena Allsworth, Pack Family Ally