Break

A Well Needed Break

By: Chris Pacanowski

            Architecture can be a very stressful curriculum, with the long hours the tough projects and the constant need to create better designs. How do we as students deal with the stresses? well there are multiple ways, some good and some bad, but the best way that I have learned is to step back and take a break for a while. Breaks allow you to reflect on what you have done as well as what you need to do. Well spring break is coming upon us, and what do most college students do? well they go to party. Sometimes this is a well needed party, but other times it can just mess up the rhythm of things. There are many different things out there for students, specifically architecture, could do. There are programs to work for an architecture firm during break, there are also service retreats where students can go work and build homes for a week. Those options are always a great thing to do, but more than most they don't get you relaxing enough to where you mind can wonder. Wondering minds are always a great way to come up with new ideas and they usually create ways to look at something differently. The best way that I have found to relax is to go out of the country, usually going somewhere that's warm and on the beach. Yes, that's usually where all of the party students go but going out of the country usually detracts a lot of the crazier students. This warm and peaceful environment can allow for people to relax and reflect on thing or just let their minds go.

            I am going to Mexico, which has all of the opportunities to have a good time, but also to as great ability for relaxation. These trips are great and well needed when working on a thesis and trying to balance other classes has been your life for the past few months. What is always important to remember when you go on trips, is to experience the place in which you are traveling to. Go into the city, meet new people walk the environments. All of those experiences can come back with you and influence designs that you will come up with now and in the future.

Enjoy!