This is my first break away from home. I had decided to stay at Amherst for my Spring break and would say I learned more than I had in mind. My initial goal for this week was to get loads of work done but instead, I also learned more about what it is like to be on campus during the break. Although some of my friends did stay, the campus did not feel lonely because of the various activities that Amherst continues to offer even on break.

The first activity open to everyone on campus and the public was the sports events. My friends’ roommate had an ice hockey game the first weekend of break. Although I am not the most active student in athletic games, I decided it should be my first time to expose myself to the skills and talent Amherst athletes put on every week. The girl’s hockey team won against Colby College. After a number of wins Amherst women’s ice hockey has taken they have advanced into the NCAA tournament. Attending these games, even going out just to be curious how the game works is a good way to get close to the Amherst community and families. It is also a great way to support your roommate, friends, friends through friends, and learn a little bit more about the sport your colleagues play.

Another fun activity that happened on Wednesday was the Contemplative Spring Break Outing with the Religious and Spiritual Life. The site visited included the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory, Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area, and Haymarket Cafe which accommodate 42 Amherst students. There was conversation over smoothies, pastries, and photos taken of the beautiful sites.

Staying at Amherst while everyone else is at home it is not as bad as it seems. Amherst continues to run its fun activities to have spaces where students can relax and have fun with friends. This would be my first time experiencing a break away from home therefore it is nice to put light on things that are not normally talked about.