While the name of the break suggests relaxation and time off from school, this is usually not the case. Although it’s students’ first full week off since January, it’s evident that for many, the days aren’t filled with freedom.
Professors are adamant about aligning all major assignments to fall right around spring break. They deliberately organize their syllabus so that the majority of their student’s grade is determined by work that is due directly before and after the break.
“Don’t worry, you’ll have the whole week off from face-to-face instruction!” one professor claims. “Just make sure you have three readings, four single-spaced essays, and two online quizzes completed. Also, there will be a test covering everything in detail promptly on Monday morning,” they add. They failed to address the overflow of inquiries about when they’ll grade the exam from over a month ago.
A disgruntled junior spoke up about their grievances with the workload. “I have two major projects due on the Friday before break and a presentation scheduled at 8 A.M. on the first day back,” he cried. Unfortunately, he had to swap out a frisbee for his laptop to bring to the beach with him in order to properly prepare.
Meanwhile, freshmen have the time of their lives during spring break. With only TopHat modules and discussion posts due for participation grades, they’re able to kick their feet up and relax.
With professors persistently inhibiting an enjoyable spring break, some students may not have the chance to leave their desk. They’re encouraged to soak up the warmth of the keyboard under their fingers and bask in the glow of their computer screens.
