Even though the weather’s almost always moody these days (I am writing this with a storm raging outside), little things do tend to perk up our lives as we embark through the spring semester. Hopefully, it’s not long until the days start feeling brighter and fuller.

Treat yourself!

Let’s face it. After the long, comforting winter break, it’s hard to get back into routine. To actually start doing uni work, participating in other activities, even just getting by! Every now and then, it’s good to treat yourself! From little sweet treats to booking a ticket for a play/the cinema or even a short day trip, make sure you have something to look forward to; especially if the dreary weather is making you feel dreadful.

One of the current happenings in Belfast is Pottery Painting! If this looks like something you have always wanted to try, go for it! It’s located on Botanic Avenue and I’ve heard they do themed nights as well (apparently Taylor Swift and ABBA nights are their popular ones!).

How to Enjoy Your Spare Time at Queen's and in Belfast

Self-care (and grounding techniques)

As suggested earlier, it is important to look after yourself, even when you’re wading through the difficulties of student life at the moment! While self-care might look different for everyone, finding what’s yours and adopting it into your schedule can make the world seem at least a little less overwhelming. 

If you tend to get anxious during this season, it may also be worthwhile to try grounding techniques if you don’t already have a go-to one! There are a few generic ones that are always mentioned online (name five things you can see, four things you can touch, etc.,) but they don’t always work – so find out what calms you down!

You can also avail yourselves of support services available for free. Nightline is a popular student-led, mental wellbeing service you can call/text to talk! And of course, the Student Wellbeing Service does a drop-in you can go to (Mon-Fri 11am-3pm).

Looking After Your Mental Health as a Queen’s University Student

Developing academic skills

Having to do quite a few readings for every module, attending classes, and basically just showing up is what you will currently be doing. But soon, assessment deadlines and annual exams are going to loom over! Which is why it would be great for you to hone those academic skills, so you won’t have to compromise on your grades by the end of semester.

The AHSS Skills Hub is a good resource – they conduct 1:1 sessions as well for essay support, generally improving your academic skills, etc. Remember to go to office hours of your lecturers and tutors, and not leave it for the last minute when everyone’s scrambling to get appointments! The Learning Development Service offers help in a range of areas: presentation, referencing, essay writing, and more! 

A Guide to Support Services at Queen’s

Career fairs

The active Careers team at Queen’s provide keen support every step of the way for students. If you’re in your penultimate or final year, applying for jobs and internships is going to be a busy and time-consuming task to overcome. Getting in touch with CES, looking for any opportunities you may consider, and signing up for careers fairs come in handy and will make you a little less stressed.

The AHSS Skills team also organise events like the ‘AHSS Connect Lunch’ which is your perfect opportunity to meet up with subject societies, have free food, meet the student skills team, SVC representatives, staff and network!

A Guide to Careers Fairs at Queen's

Weekly incentive

As serious as the spring semester may feel, winding down is equally important. Whether it’s having a night out at the SU bar, going to a Literific debate. walking with the Walkie Talkie Girlies or planning a little trip to Helen’s Bay for the weekend, weekly incentives to look forward to help in not just improving your mood, but make you feel motivated rather than burnt out.

Particularly after a string of rainy days, storms and campus closure, it is equally fulfilling to connect with yourself and friends as it is with academia!

Find out more

Take a Virtual Tour of Queen's

Things to See and Do on Campus

5 Must-Do Activities to Improve Your Student Life in 2026

Top 5 University Experiences You Should Not Miss Out on at Queen’s

Magdalene Natasha Charles Anthropology and English | Undergraduate Student | India I'm an undergraduate student pursuing Anthropology and English at Queen's. Originally from Chennai, India, I've now moved to Belfast for my studies. In my free time, I like to write poetry, and I've self-published my own collection ('Subdued Cries' on Amazon). I'm an aspiring novelist and I hope to inspire people through my writing journey. I also journal, and am fond of frolicking (or taking calming walks) through parks and gardens. I'm extremely passionate about reading and my current favourite is The Secret History by Donna Tartt. I'm constantly looking for ways to improve my personal and professional skills, and hope to gain meaningful experience during my time here at Queen's.