Wrapping up Semester 1: Rest, Reset & Get Ready for January
Semester 1 is nearly wrapped, and honestly? We all need a breather. The winter break is your chance to slow down, reset your headspace, and gear up for a smoother, smarter January at Queen’s.
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REST - why it actually matters
The past few months have been A LOT. Lectures, labs, plans that actually make it out of the group chat, trying to keep the laundry pile under control… Semester 1 hit fast. The break isn’t just “time off”, it’s a full system reboot.
Give yourself permission to chill. Sleep in. Watch or read something that isn’t “recommended for your module.” Head home if you’re heading home or explore Belfast if you’re staying. The city has serious cosy-season energy — Christmas lights, markets and cafés running on pure cosy vibes — and actual room to breathe.
RESET - low effort, still useful
A reset doesn’t have to feel like diving back into work. Think of it as quietly setting future-you up for fewer meltdowns later. Tiny actions now = less chaos in Week 1.
Small resets that still feel like rest:
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- Walk around Botanic or Ormeau Park
- A mini digital detox (aka stop doom-scrolling before bed)
- Catch up with friends you haven’t seen since Week 5
- A 10-minute tidy of your space (timer encouraged)
And when you’re up for a bigger reset:
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- Reflect on Semester 1 - what worked? what didn’t?
- Clear your desk and your desktop
- Refresh your study strategy for Semester 2
- Reset your routine: sleep, meals, fresh air, movement
- Reconnect socially - maybe try a new society in January
- Check your finances before they check you
And if things feel overwhelming? Queen’s Student Wellbeing are there year-round - reaching out early is always worth it.
GET READY - softly
No one’s expecting dissertation-energy over Christmas. But future-you will be buzzing if past-you does just enough:
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- Skim your January timetable
- Set 2-3 realistic goals for next semester
- Decide how you want Semester 2 to feel (not just survive)
You don’t have to become a whole new person in 2025. You’ve already put in the work - you deserve the reset. Take the time now, unapologetically, and you’ll walk back onto campus in January refreshed and actually ready to go.
