Talk to nearly any WashU student, and you’ll likely hear about their multiple areas of study and numerous extracurriculars. It’s no secret that this campus is full of students who take pride in balancing rigorous academics with athletics, arts, research, and/or jobs.

While all of these opportunities are some of the most rewarding parts about being a student at WashU, they are also the most exhausting. As we trudge through to the end of the semester, it can be easy to dwell on the shortcomings of the past few months. We hope this Staff Editorial can serve as a reminder that this winter break, all students deserve to take time to rest and acknowledge everything they’ve accomplished this past semester.

WashU student-athletes test their bodies and minds through rigorous training and competition to represent our school. WashU performers spend endless hours in rehearsals to create beautiful performances for us. Student artists and writers keep us inspired, entertained, and informed. Students in campus clubs dedicate their time to vital efforts, including advocacy and volunteering for important causes, serving the WashU community through health and wellness, and preparing themselves and others for future careers.

Being at WashU often entails some imposter syndrome. Rather than comparing your accomplishments to those of your peers, remember that, regardless of your GPA or number of extracurriculars, you deserve a break too. No matter your major, clubs, or LinkedIn profile, college is hard, and you are putting your best effort into moving through it. The business of the spring semester will be here before you know it, so take some well-deserved time for yourself while you have the chance. 

That being said, it is also important to recognize the people who aren’t able to completely reset from all things WashU over break. Many student-athletes, researchers, and people with jobs will continue to work regularly this winter. Even if you are home for break, you can still acknowledge their contributions by reaching out to your friend doing them or even watching the WashU men’s and women’s basketball games.

It can be difficult to pull ourselves out of the grind culture of our daily lives. We often forget how to take care of ourselves or simply be unproductive. Many of us will not be able to fully abandon our commitments, like jobs, applications, or research. Still, this doesn’t mean a break is impossible. Whether you are still on campus or back home, give yourself a break from your typical routine. Take some time to disconnect from your phone and to-do list and discover (or rediscover) some hobbies that you don’t usually have time for. Pick up a book, start crafting, or go for a walk outside. Take a pause, be proud of yourself for all you have done this semester, and do something fun, relaxing, unproductive, or pointless.

Staff editorials reflect the opinion of the majority of our editorial board members. The editorial board operates independently of our newsroom and includes members of the senior staff.

Bri Nitsberg | Managing Photo Editor

Sylvie Richards | Managing Forum Editor

Sydney Tran | Editor-in-Chief 

Riley Herron | Editor-in-Chief

Matt Eisner | Managing Sports Editor

Eran Fann | Photo Editor

Isabella Diaz-Mira | Photo Editor

Astrid Burns | Special Issues Editor

Kate Westfall | Managing Design Editor

Sara Gelrud | Junior Scene Editor

AnaElda Ramos | Managing Illustration Editor

Sophie Schwartz | Junior Scene Editor

Ella Giere | Photo Editor

Alan Knight | Managing Multimedia Editor