Make the most of winter break
Spanning an entire month, there’s a lot you can accomplish over winter break, and UC Berkeley students do it all. Seeking inspiration on how to level up your next winter break? Keep reading to learn how a handful of Golden Bears made the most of their time last year, and what they plan to do this year.
How did you spend winter break 2024–2025?
Balancing work and play
“I spent my break applying for post-grad positions and interviews! I worked on applications mainly for programs that were set to begin in May after graduation and that were dedicated to the field I was interested in working in. I worked on updating my portfolio to go alongside these applications and interviews I had upcoming. I also relaxed and recharged to prepare for my last semester as a student and for graduation. I tried my best to savor my last winter break!” — Melissa, Class of 2025, majoring in English
“I continued working as a Student Writer for Berkeley Life over winter break, and beyond that I spent a lot of time with my family, and going to see movies with my best friend Nick! I also went to the record store a few times to check out some albums.” — Nolan, Class of 2027, majoring in English
Nolan (right) going to see Sonic the Hedgehog 2 with friends.
Studying abroad
“Last year, I was studying abroad at Queen Mary University of London through the University of California Education Abroad Program. For the beginning of my winter break, I traveled around Europe with my sister, visiting places that were known for being festive during Christmas time. Between London, Vienna, Prague, and Berlin, we visited a total of 28 Christmas markets. My parents also came to visit us in London for Christmas and New Year’s so we got to show them around the city, go to the West End, and do some day trips to other parts of England.” — Rachel, Class of 2026, majoring in media studies
European Christmas Markets and architecture.
“I was in Japan, studying abroad at Waseda University through UCEAP, so I spent my winter break traveling around the country, including Aomori, Kamakura, and Kawaguchiko.” — Brendon, Class of 2025, majoring in data science and Japanese
Christmas in Japan is often celebrated with Kentucky Fried Chicken!
Pursuing something new and something old
“I practiced baking (a new hobby), skied a lot (an old hobby), and crocheted flowers (another old hobby).” — Erika, Class of 2025, majoring in cognitive science
Snowy mountains and bouquets made with love.
“I spent the first half of winter break in my hometown, mostly baking and reading, and then I flew to Dublin, Ireland where I was studying abroad for spring.” — Karina, Class of 2025, majoring in English
Christmas cookies in California and Temple Bar in Ireland.
With friends and family
“I worked on handmade gifts for my family and strengthened my relationship with my sister. This year, I am so excited to spend a month with my sister and my grandparents, who’ve recently moved up to my hometown of Sacramento. I can’t wait to catch up with my Mom’s family and my grandpa, who is 90!” — Izzie, Class of 2026, majoring in rhetoric and American studies
Izzie out front of the house her grandfather built himself 65 years ago.
“My family went on a week-long trip to Mexico! I also spent a lot of time at the beginning of break making presents for everyone for the holidays.” — Milana, Class of 2028, majoring in astrophysics and political science
Milana in Mexico.
Relaxing
“I spent my winter break sleeping, catching up on TV, and spending time with family — overall recovering. This year I’m looking forward to being home, playing video games, and resting.” — Ivory, Class of 2027, majoring in media studies
Ivory (left) and family.
“I spent some time camping in the desert, but outside of that, I didn’t particularly do much besides sleep. It was a good rest after the mania of my first semester at Cal. This winter break, I’m looking forward to seeing my dogs again. It’s been too long since I laid around with them.” — Vincent, Class of 2026, majoring in English
Furry friends snoozing on the couch.
Looking ahead
I hope this blog reminded you that breaks during the school year can be a time for both productivity and well-earned rest. How do you plan to spend the upcoming winter break? Whether it’s traveling with friends, finishing your honors thesis, or cozying up with your cat, Berkeley Life wishes you well.
Nina Takahashi, Class of 2026, is majoring in film & media and minoring in Japanese and creative writing.
Want more?
- Find out how Golden Bears spend their summers.
- Explore summer opportunities in Berkeley.
- Discover year-round fun at Berkeley.