December 2025 "The 'School Grinch': How Students Can Protect the Spirit of Christmas" by Adan Perez

     Christmas is approaching, and the environment is showing this change. Decorations adorn city streets, homes, workplaces, and schools, all displaying signs that read "Merry Christmas." Besides the decorations and carols, people's attitudes also shift; altruism becomes more evident, and good manners and camaraderie are more noticeable everywhere. I dare say Christmas transforms our daily life. However, student life is a bit different. Yes, there is time to spend with family during the holy days (if we have the chance), but there are also the pressures of preparing for the spring semester, which begins right after the Christmas festivities.

     A student's Christmas might be a little different. During this season, there is the smell of delicious hot chocolate; there is time to rest, explore, visit new places, and gaze at the beauty of snow if you stay in the valley, however, for a student, there is also the smell of a new book, the nervousness of the new semester's expectations, and the wonder of a new crazy schedule that might make you wonder, “what am I going to do?” This contrast of feelings can make us lose the magic of the Christmas season and the special time to be surrounded by those who love us. It seems like the Grinch of our Christmas is student life. To avoid our Christmas time being stolen by the “school Grinch,” here is some advice you can put into practice to prevent school life from obscuring the brightness of the Christmas season.

• Plan and Set Boundaries: Create a schedule outlining your spring semester preparations and holiday activities. By setting out time for both, you can ensure that schoolwork does not interrupt your Christmas celebrations. Setting boundaries, like no schoolwork during family gatherings, will help you stay focused and reduce stress.

• Prioritize what matters most: Identify the essential tasks for the spring semester. For example, handle course registration or financial aid forms early. Then, prioritize holiday traditions and time with loved ones. Completing the essential school tasks allows you to relax and fully enjoy the different festivities.

• Practice Mindfulness: If you find yourself worrying about school while celebrating Christmas, bring your focus back to the present moment. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or gratitude journaling, can help you stay grounded and enjoy holiday experiences.

• Communicate Your Needs: If you know you will need time for academic preparations, let friends and family know in advance so they can plan with you for a time that works for you. By communicating, you can receive the right support from those around you to balance both school preparation and holiday plans so that you can avoid last-minute stress.

• Allow Yourself to enjoy the Christmas Season: Remember, you need time to celebrate and recharge. Allow yourself to enjoy the Christmas season without guilt, knowing that taking breaks and finding joy will help you start your spring semester with energy and focus.

Remember, the purpose is not to avoid school duties but to manage them well while you share with the ones you love. May this small, practical list of advice help you manage your time by planning and setting aside time to prepare for the new school semester while you enjoy the magic of the Christmas season. Have a happy Christmas season and see you for Spring 2026!