6 productive things students can do over school break
School breaks are often seen as a time to unwind—and rightly so. After weeks or months of assignments, exams, and long nights, taking a breather is essential. But in between the Netflix binges and late mornings, breaks also offer a rare chance to get ahead without the usual pressures of school life.
Being productive doesn't mean filling every minute with work. Instead, it's about using part of your free time to invest in yourself—your goals, your future, or even your peace of mind.
Here are six things you can do over break that balance rest with meaningful growth.
Update your resume or portfolio
Whether you're preparing your college applications or planning for internships after school ends, your resume is often the first impression you make.
A school break is the perfect time to refresh it. Add any new experience you've gained, such as campus projects, volunteer work, or academic achievements. If you're in a creative or tech field, consider updating your portfolio as well—organise your best work, clean up your layout, and make it presentable for future opportunities.
Even if you're not actively applying yet, having an updated resume on hand saves time and reduces stress when deadlines come around.
Learn a new skill
Short online courses are ideal during breaks. They're often self-paced, and you can dip in and out as your schedule allows. Whether it's learning Excel, coding, public speaking, graphic design, or even budgeting—small skills can compound over time.
Platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, and even YouTube offer free or affordable options. Choose something that genuinely interests you or aligns with your long-term goals.
Bonus: You can add these completed courses to your LinkedIn profile or resume.
Shadow a professional
or volunteer locally
Breaks are a great time to test-drive career interests. Shadowing a professional in a field you're curious about can offer clarity you won't get from textbooks or career websites. Even a day or two can give you insight into whether a path is right for you.
If shadowing isn't possible, volunteering is another valuable way to gain experience and give back.
Many nonprofits and community groups welcome extra help during school holidays, and volunteering can also expand your network and build soft skills like teamwork and communication.
Declutter and organise your digital life
It's not glamorous, but organising your digital space can save you serious time later. Use your break to clean up your desktop, sort files into folders, delete unused apps, and back up important documents.
Go through your inbox and unsubscribe from newsletters you never read.
Organise your notes from last semester so they're easy to access for future reference or finals. You'll start the next term with a clearer mind and a more efficient setup.
Read something out of academic syllabus
Academic reading is often fast and functional—just enough to prep for an exam or finish a paper. During your break, try reading something for yourself. It doesn't have to be a classic or a self-help bestseller (unless that's your thing). Fiction, memoir, essays, long-form journalism—anything that expands your worldview or simply offers a good story can be mentally refreshing.
Reading outside of assignments improves critical thinking and writing skills almost by accident. Plus, it's one of the few productive things that also feels like a true break.
Reflect and plan for the next term
School breaks are the ideal time to check in with yourself. What worked well last semester? What didn't? Are your current habits helping or holding you back? Take some time to journal or think through your academic and personal goals.
If you're feeling ambitious, you can map out major deadlines for the next term, organise your calendar, or set a few small goals—like joining a campus club, applying for scholarships, or taking more regular study breaks.
Even a loose plan can help you feel more in control when classes resume.
Productivity doesn't have to mean hustle. Using your break to grow in small, intentional ways can make a big difference—without ruining the restful spirit of vacation. With a little planning, you can return to school refreshed
and
more prepared than ever.
Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
'Jaat' released on OTT: Where to watch Sunny Deol's latest box office hit online?
Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda's action-packed film Jaat, which hit theatres on April 10, is now available to stream on Netflix starting June 5. Directed by Gopichand Malineni and backed by the makers of the Pushpa series, the film is streaming in both Hindi and Telugu. Following a strong box office performance with over ₹100 crore earned globally, Jaat continues its run digitally. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Jaat's Star-Studded Cast and Makers Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Box Office Performance and Reviews What's Next for Sunny Deol After making noise at the box office earlier this year, Sunny Deol's action-packed film Jaat has officially made its digital debut. The high-octane drama, which released in theatres on April 10, 2025, is now available to stream on Netflix. The platform began streaming the film from June 5 in both Hindi and shared a promo video featuring Sunny Deol himself, where he confidently declares, '@iamsunnydeol has a tareekh for you. Note kar lo, JAAT aa raha hai. Watch Jaat, out 5 June, in Hindi and Telugu, on Netflix.' The announcement video carried Sunny's trademark intensity, heightening excitement among fans who had been awaiting the OTT by Gopichand Malineni, Jaat brings together a strong cast including Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, Viineet Kumar Singh, Saiyami Kher, and Regina Cassandra. The film was produced by the same team behind the Pushpa franchise, marking their first venture into Hindi to the buzz, the production team has confirmed that a sequel is already in the pipeline, indicating that the story is far from was reportedly made on a massive budget of Rs 100 crore. The film successfully earned Rs 118.36 crore globally, turning out to be a box office hit. Its solid theatrical performance set the stage for a highly anticipated OTT Jaat managed to draw crowds, critics shared a mix of reactions. An ETimes review noted, 'Visually, the film holds its own. Thaman S's background score heightens the drama effectively, and the cinematography offers a gritty, lived-in aesthetic. Action sequences, while often overindulgent, are slick and impactful. The dialogues, penned by Saurabh Gupta and Sai Madhav Burra, are over-the-top and theatrical—often more memorable than the scenes themselves.'However, the same review pointed out that the narrative pacing became a concern after the interval. 'The second half drags, and the film's 153-minute runtime begins to weigh heavily. A forced item number featuring Urvashi Rautela feels unnecessary and only adds to the film's bloated feel.'On the professional front, Sunny Deol is not slowing down. After Jaat, he is preparing for the release of Border 2, the much-awaited sequel to the 1997 war you missed it in theatres, Jaat is now streaming on Netflix from June 5, 2025.
India.com
2 hours ago
- India.com
IMDb releases Top 10 actors list: Aishwarya beats Salman, this actor grabs the No. 1 spot, his name is....
The world of Bollywood is filled with glitz and glamour. With each actor giving their best to reach the pinnacle of success, there are only a few who become fan favourites. As we hit the mid-month of 2025 – June, IMDb has released the list of top 10 actors of this week. While many may think that the top spot has been secured by Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Deepika Padukone, or Akshay Kumar, let us tell you that the first spot is taken by an actor of the new generation. Yes, you read that right! Now, the actor who took the first spot is someone who recently featured in a web series, and the show is widely being loved. He is the brother of Bollywood's chocolate boy and has made his space in the industry with his hard work. If you are wondering who we are discussing, then the actor is Ishaan Khatter, brother of Shahid Kapoor. Ishaan Khatter recently turned heads with his series The Royals and secured the first spot in IMDb's list of top 10 actors. In the second spot, it is none other than Shah Rukh Khan, whereas Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan took the third and fourth spots. Coming to Ishaan, he was born to actors Rajesh Khattar and Neelima Azeem. In 2005, he made his first screen appearance as a child in the film Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi!. Before making his debut, Ishaan worked as an AD for his half-brother Shahid Kapoor's film Udta Punjab. Finally, in 2017, Ishaan started his Bollywood journey with Beyond the Clouds. The movie was his breakthrough, and it also earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut. Later, he featured in Dhadak. The movie also marked the debut of late actor Sridevi's daughter, Janhvi Kapoor. His career has also seen him venture into international projects like the British miniseries A Suitable Boy (2020) and the American miniseries The Perfect Couple (2024). Ishaan was recently seen in the Netflix series The Royals. The series gained widespread acclaim. Apart from Ishaan, the series also featured Bhumi Pednekar in a lead role.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Surrey emerges as family-friendly UK hotspot for celebrities raising children
Celebrities opt for Surrey over London for family life While London remains a prominent hub for celebrity living, Surrey has gained attention as a top destination for family life among well-known figures. The county offers a combination of natural beauty, highly rated schools, and accessibility to the capital, making it an attractive alternative. Four different Surrey areas recently appeared in the top 10 of a national "family hotspot" index. With ample outdoor activities, parks, and family-friendly facilities, the area is particularly well-suited to child-rearing. Deputy Features Editor of HELLO! Sophie Hamilton, a 15-year Surrey resident, noted the region's appeal, citing its strong community environment and resources for parents. Also read: Celebrities panic on Trump presidency: After Eva Longoria, now Ellen DeGeneres flees America; here's where she has settled by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 임플란트 최대 할인 지원해드려요 임플란터 더 알아보기 Undo Actors, musicians, and athletes are among those who have chosen to raise their families in Surrey, highlighting its rising reputation as a celebrity-friendly residential area. High-profile families settle in leafy Surrey suburbs Tom Hardy and Charlotte Riley have chosen Surrey as their home, where they live with their two children. While details about the couple's residence remain private, the actor duo is known for maintaining a low profile and protecting their family's privacy. Live Events Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy reside in Surrey with their four children: Sophia, Liberty, Johnny, and Jack. Their home includes modern amenities such as a cinema room and a dedicated podcast recording space. Abbey Clancy, in an interview, noted her strong influence on their interior design decisions. Peter Andre and Emily Andre are raising their children Amelia, Theo, and Arabella in Surrey, alongside Peter's children from a previous marriage, Junior and Princess. Their property features a home gym, landscaped gardens, and a spacious lounge, frequently shared with fans via social media. Andy Murray and Kim Murray relocated in 2022 from Oxshott to Leatherhead. Their estate spans 28 acres and includes a tennis court. The couple lives with their four children: Sophia, Edie, Teddy, and Lola. Also read: Only Selena Gomez? Another celebrity joins the billionaire club as 28-year-old Hailey Bieber strikes $1 billion Rhode deal Surrey homes offer privacy and luxury to UK celebrities Matthew Goode, currently starring in Netflix's Dept. Q , resides in Surrey with his wife Sophie Dymoke and their three children. Like Hardy, Goode chooses to keep his family life private, with few details available about his residence. Louise Redknapp, a television personality and singer, also lives in Surrey. Her home features minimalistic interior design and was once shared with her two sons, Charley and Beau. While Charley now attends college in the US, and Beau plays football in Brentford, Redknapp remains in the Surrey residence. Amanda Holden, Britain's Got Talent judge, lives in a stylish Surrey property with her husband Chris Hughes and their daughters, Lexi and Hollie. Known for her design skills, Holden has decorated her home with themed rooms for her children and shared glimpses online. Her dining area is particularly noted for its stately home appearance. Also read: These scared A-list celebrities are hiring top lawyers in case they're called to testify in Diddy's trial Surrey's consistent presence on family-friendly rankings and its growing list of celebrity residents affirm its status as one of the UK's premier destinations for raising children. Its proximity to London and emphasis on quality of life continue to draw high-profile families to its residential communities.
