By Brianna Brinker, Campus News Editor
Thanksgiving break is a time when many students travel home to be with family and friends. However, there are students who spend the holiday break on campus and find themselves unsure of what to do.
The campus can feel empty and quiet, and it can be extremely difficult to be far from home, often making you miss your loved ones even more. Still, there are ways to turn your homesickness into happiness!
“It is common for students to experience emotional lows or homesickness when they are away from home, wherever home may be, during the holidays. It is natural to have these feelings,” said Dr. Audrea Maxwell, student success coach.
On and around campus, there are so many options to make each day exciting and to make Saint Leo University a home away from home.
Events Saint Leo University offers during Thanksgiving break
Thanksgiving break officially starts on Monday, Nov. 24 and ends Friday, Nov. 28. While classes will not be held during these dates, Saint Leo does offer a few events for the remaining students on campus.
Dawn McElveen, director of student and family engagement, encourages students to stay updated with EngageLeo because there will be campus activities added along with a potential off-campus trip for students who are staying on campus for Thanksgiving Break.
On Nov. 25, Saint Leo Run Club will be hosting a Thanksgiving run from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. at the clock tower: a chance to “run for what you are grateful for.” There will also be a non-perishable food drive to help give back to the community.
On Nov. 26 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be a Dungeons and Dragons game session in the Donald R. Tapia School of Business building in room 415. This is a game known from the original Netflix television show “Stranger Things,” which will be releasing the first four episodes of the last season on the same day. This will be the perfect chance to get a feel for what the characters in the show talk about and have a watch party with your friends after!
Throughout the week, the Wellness Center will offer fitness classes and remain open with adjusted hours for students looking to stay active. The library and dining hall will also have adjusted hours to accommodate those staying on campus. There will also be three basketball games during the break. They are free for all Saint Leo students, great entertainment, and a chance to cheer for your lions!
Events held in the area surrounding Saint Leo University
On Nov. 22, there will be a turkey and food giveaway from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. located on 1779 W Hillsborough Ave, just thirty minutes from campus. It is called “Day of Thanks,” and is a great way to show gratitude and give to people who are in need.
On Nov. 23, there will be an event located in Tampa called the Thanks-Living Holy Ghost Crusade. This event includes food trucks, giveaways, and services. This is a Christian event and is a great way to get out of your dorm room!
Other ways to make staying on campus festive
Thanksgiving break is such a special time of the year. If you are spending it on campus, make the most out of it.
Go to a café, pick out a sweet treat and coffee, sit, relax, listen to music, and enjoy your day.
If you don’t have a car, there are two cafés within walking distance; The Haven Café and A Cup of Organic are right down the road from campus.
You can even take a trip to Dade City and get started on your Christmas shopping! Downtown Dade City has antique stores that have hidden gems everywhere.
Thanksgiving Day in the United States comes with a lot of food. If you are a college student, your meal doesn’t have to be perfect! Attempt Friendsgiving and have all your friends each bring a Thanksgiving-themed dish or snack.
Maxwell shares with students a couple of ideas on what to do while spending Thanksgiving Break on campus:
- Going to a park or a botanical garden where they can enjoy things of beauty. This will give them some relief from their declining mood.
- Even though they may be away from home, it is important to establish a consistent sleeping and eating routine. This will help increase their energy and will help lift their mood.
- Having a movie night or creating holiday decorations can keep students busy and help them enjoy the holiday seasons, even while away from home.
- Lastly, utilizing the University campus grounds by taking walks for exercise will help lift a student’s mood and help them feel recharged.
“Regardless of what students who are away from home do during the holidays, it is important for them to identify that feelings of sadness while away from home are natural, and, thus, be intentional in practicing self-care and self-compassion will help lift their moods and still provide them the opportunity of enjoying the holidays,” said Maxwell.
Staying on campus for the holidays is a great opportunity to try new activities, meet new people, adventure around the area, and truly make college memories that are unforgettable. Gather with your peers, participate in holiday themed events, remember what you are grateful for, and make your Thanksgiving break festive and fun!
1 Comment
What a great option for students that can not make it home for the holidays . So many options to enjoy your holiday in Florida for students that live so far from their families . Thank you for sharing options thru this article to bring joy to students on campus .