Winter Break on Campus

By: Ashley Giandomenio
Posted In: News

As the top of the ground and trees turn white and the smell of wet snow fill one’s nose; as the air turns so cold and crisp it catches one’s breath and the sound of joyful songs and church bells drown the atmosphere; college students are beginning to pack their bags. December 19th begins Salve Regina’s winter break. It is the time of year when classes and finals come to an end, academic stress is released and a semi-long break with family and neighborhood friends is all that waits. However, though the students experience time off from Salve, it does not mean that the University is on break as well.

Throughout the academic semester, Salve University has many events and activities to offer the students. Though, without the students one would ask what happens to all of the activities. Does Salve shut down during winter break? Is the University vacant and comparable to a ghost town during this month off? The answer to these questions is no, Salve is still active and participating in events. There is not a lot to offer for students that stay close to campus, yet, Salve is nowhere near a ghost town.

One facility that is still lively during winter break is the Recreation Center. The center has modified hours during the break but attempts to accommodate the Salve faculty and the winter teams which arrive back on campus January 2, a few weeks earlier than the rest of the student body. The gym is also used by the Clooney Elementary school on Sunday afternoons. Also, even though some students experience time off, the winter athletes still train and play games during this time. That allows athletes to play and travel without missing classes.

Not only do Salve athletes receive a limited break, but the University staff members are required to work through the vacation with the exception of holidays. They use the time to finalize plans for the spring semester and conferences are scheduled as well. Another activity that Salve Regina still hosts during winter breaks is weddings. There are already two wedding events planned for vacation time.

When the air turns cold and the snow starts to fall, college students know it is time to start on their journey from campus to their home to enjoy a relaxing break from Salve. On the other hand, the University itself does not receive the same amount of leisure time. The Salve faculty is still in the process of finalizing spring plans, hosting several events and ensuring an unforgettable experience for students attending the University. Salve would not exist without the students’ enrollment. For that reason, when the scholars go home for break; Salve University stays active in preparation for the students return.