The countdown to break is in full swing, as professors assign their final class projects and students pack up their essentials to take home. For out-of-state students, however, it can feel impossible to channel the “home for the holidays” spirit from sometimes over 1,000 miles away.

The holiday season is one of the most popular times to travel during the year. Some people try to see family who live out of town, while others are looking to watch the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve. I believe the best thing to do during the holiday season is relax and enjoy the festivities in the comfort of my own home.

As students near the end of the fall semester, stress only seems to increase, as does the number of assignments and longing for the holidays. In the busyness of the fall, students might be overlooking one practice that has the potential to greatly improve their mental well-being: gratitude.

Yes, it is relieving to relax and turn your brain off, but don’t forget you’re a guest wherever you’re staying — even if it’s home. Leaving for holiday breaks, you may be excited not to worry about a sink full of dishes or which roommate is going to take the trash out. That being said, be prepared to pitch in and help where possible.