Kristen Linnartz
Staff Writer
Spring break is an exciting time for most students at college. Whether they have plans to go on a vacation with their friends or family or just plan to go home and relax, it’s something students look forward to at any school.
The Counseling Center shed some light on helpful tips for those who are planning to get away and go on vacation with their friends. It is an exciting time, and no one is naïve to the fact that there will most likely be “partying,” but Brian Krylowicz, the director of the center, shared some ideas on how to stay safe.
“Realize this isn’t just a pause button in life; the same rules that apply for the other 150 days in the year still apply on these days,” said Krylowicz.
Some key points are that alcohol use may be present in some of the more exciting getaways, so trying to be aware of the usage and your surroundings is very important. Being aware of your alcohol intake is essential. Krylowicz compares it to a buffet and explains that just because you have all of these choices of alcohol doesn’t necessarily mean you should drink all of them.
Being around others and not losing your phone is important. Peer pressure can go both ways, but as long as you are with a group of people that you can trust, you should be able to stay safe.
“Some people think that rules don’t apply to them. In the last school I was at someone went to the Grand Canyon for spring break and never came back…staying in your comfort zone is key,” said Krylowicz.
Most people who are planning on getting away for spring break aren’t essentially choosing to drink excessive amounts, but unfortunately it is something that happens and could lead to people being in danger.
“99.99 percent of people who go on spring break have a wonderful time and come back recharged,” said Krylowicz. “Make sure you’re in the right location, being aware of what you’re going to do that evening and going to the right place.”
If you are going somewhere renowned for spring break, make sure you are aware of your surroundings because people will see you coming and could identify you as an easy target. Basic things such as being aware of where your wallet is and where your purse is will keep you safe overall.
“One thing for spring break I beg of people to do is not to take your books with you. You’re going on spring break to have fun, go have fun [and] don’t bring guilt with you. Do your work when you get back – you’ll be less stressed if you just leave it home and worry about it when you get back,” said Krylowicz.
Have people around that you trust and overall just have fun on spring break. It’s the last break students will have until school breaks for the summer, so everyone should enjoy themselves however that may be – just remember to stay safe!
The Counseling Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Counseling Center is located on the main floor of the Health Center. Students can schedule an appointment by calling (413) 748-3345. Students are welcome to walk in; however, there may not be a counselor available at that time, so they may then schedule an appointment.