Are you wondering what to do between classes in college?
Unlike high school, where you typically only have five or six minutes between classes, you may have much longer breaks between classes during college.
You might have thirty minutes to an hour between classes, or even longer if you have a couple of classes in the morning and then a couple in the afternoon.
Instead of spending these breaks scrolling aimlessly through your phone, here are 19 productive things to do during your break.
Some of these are more productive than others — but hey, taking the time to relax and de-stress during the day is important too!
1. Walk around campus
Taking a stroll around campus between classes can be a refreshing way to clear your mind and get some exercise. Use this time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings, explore different areas of campus, or simply enjoy some fresh air.
It can also be an opportunity to bump into friends or engage in small talk with fellow students, fostering a sense of community.
This is a great way to de-stress and make the most of your break, especially if it’s a shorter one. Even a fifteen-minute walk around campus on a nice day is a great way to spend a break before going to your next class.
2. Review your notes
Utilize the time between classes to review the notes you just took. This can help reinforce your understanding of the material and improve retention. Skim through the key points, underline important information, and jot down any questions or areas that need further clarification.
By regularly reviewing your notes, you’ll be better prepared for future classes and exams. If you have a short break between classes, this is a great way to be productive.
3. Do your homework
If you have assignments or homework due, the break between classes can provide a focused time slot to work on them. Find a quiet spot in the library or a study area and tackle your tasks.
Breaking them down into smaller, manageable chunks can help you stay organized and make progress. Completing your assignments between classes frees up your evenings for other activities.
If you really want to get ahead on your academic life, then using the break between classes for homework is one of the best uses for your time.
4. Grab a bite to eat
When hunger strikes, use the break between classes to grab a quick bite to eat. Visit the campus dining hall, a nearby café, or pack a lunch from home. Eating a nutritious meal or snack can fuel your brain and provide the energy you need for the rest of the day.
It’s also an opportunity to socialize with friends or classmates and catch up on any interesting conversations or campus news.
5. Work out at the gym
If you enjoy staying active, consider heading to the campus gym during your break. This is probably best for when you have an hour-long break or longer, so you aren’t rushing to get to your next class right after your workout.
Engaging in physical exercise can boost your mood, improve focus, and increase productivity. Whether it’s lifting weights or going for a run on the treadmill, a workout session can be an excellent way to relieve stress and stay in shape.
6. Read a book for fun
Use the downtime between classes to indulge in some leisure reading. Choose a book that interests you, whether it’s a novel, a non-fiction piece, or even a magazine.
Reading for pleasure can be a relaxing and enjoyable activity that stimulates your imagination and expands your knowledge in areas beyond your academic subjects.
7. Take a power nap
If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, a short power nap during the break between classes can help recharge your energy levels.
If your dorm or apartment is close by, you can head back home to take a quick nap. But if you don’t have the time, head to a quiet corner of a classroom building or the student center.
Find a quiet and comfortable spot, set an alarm to avoid oversleeping, and allow yourself a brief rest. Power naps have been shown to enhance cognitive function, improve concentration, and promote overall well-being.
8. Get coffee with a friend
Socializing with friends is an important part of the college experience. Use the break between classes to meet up with a friend and enjoy a cup of coffee together.
It’s an opportunity to catch up, share experiences, and discuss any challenging aspects of your coursework. Building a support network can provide motivation and alleviate stress during your college journey.
9. Work an on-campus job
If you have a part-time job on campus, the break between classes can be an ideal time to clock in some hours. Check your work schedule and head to your workplace to fulfill your job responsibilities.
Working an on-campus job allows you to balance your academic and work commitments effectively while also gaining valuable work experience and making some extra money.
This is a good thing to do if you have a longer break between classes — say you finish your morning classes at 11 AM and don’t have another class until 4 PM. That’s the perfect amount of time to get in a few hours at your on-campus job.
10. Go to office hours
Office hours provide an opportunity to connect with your professors and seek clarification on course material or assignments. Use the break between classes to visit your professors’ office hours and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
This one-on-one interaction can deepen your understanding of the subject matter and build a rapport with your instructors.
11. Discover a new spot on campus
College campuses often have hidden gems waiting to be explored. Use your break to venture into unexplored areas and discover new spots on campus.
It could be a serene garden, an art exhibition, a study nook, or even a recreational area. Exploring these spaces can add variety to your routine and provide a fresh perspective on your surroundings.
12. Clean your dorm or apartment
If you live on campus and have time to head home between classes, why not be productive and get some cleaning done?
A cluttered living space can contribute to stress and distractions. During your break between classes, dedicate some time to clean and organize your dorm or apartment.
Tidy up your desk, make your bed, and put away any clutter. A clean and organized living space can create a more conducive environment for studying and relaxation.
13. Listen to a podcast
Do you have some extra time between classes? Plug in your earphones and listen to an educational or entertaining podcast during your break.
Podcasts cover a wide range of topics, from science and history to comedy and storytelling. Find a podcast that aligns with your interests and use this time to expand your knowledge or simply enjoy some light-hearted entertainment.
This is great to combine with a walk around campus to get some fresh air and exercise while enjoying a podcast.
14. Apply for jobs or internships
The break between classes can be an ideal time to work on your career goals. Use this time to search for job or internship opportunities, update your resume, and draft cover letters.
Applying for positions during your college years can help you gain valuable work experience and set the foundation for your future career.
15. Run on-campus errands
Take advantage of the break to run any necessary errands on campus. This could include picking up textbooks from the library, returning borrowed items, submitting paperwork, or visiting academic advisors or student services.
By taking care of these little tasks during your break, you can save time and ensure that everything is in order.
16. Catch up on a TV show
If you enjoy watching TV shows, use the break between classes to catch up on your favorite series.
Find a comfortable spot, whether it’s in your dorm, a lounge area, or a campus common room, and indulge in some entertainment. Remember to set a time limit to avoid excessive screen time and stay on track with your academic commitments.
17. Plan out your week
Use the break to plan and organize your week ahead. Take out your planner or use a digital planning tool to map out your schedule, including classes, study time, extracurricular activities, and social engagements.
Setting priorities and allocating time for each task can help you stay organized, manage your time effectively, and reduce last-minute stress.
18. Attend a workout class
If your campus offers workout classes or fitness programs, consider attending one during your break. It can be a fun and engaging way to stay active while learning new exercise techniques or participating in group activities.
Whether it’s yoga, dance, or martial arts, these classes can contribute to your physical well-being and provide a break from academic demands.
Again, this is a good activity to do when you have a longer break (at least an hour) so you have plenty of time to do your workout class, shower and get ready afterwards, and make your way to your next class.
19. Organize your space
Use the break between classes to declutter and organize your study space. Arrange your books, files, and supplies in a neat and accessible manner. Create a system that works for you, such as color-coding folders or using storage containers.
An organized space can promote productivity and help you locate important materials more efficiently.
This is also a good time to declutter and throw away old notes or assignments you no longer need.
What To Do Between Classes
This guide showed you what to do between classes in college to stay productive during your breaks.
Some of these activities will get you ahead academically or career-wise, while others are great ways to de-stress and decompress during the day.
Related Posts:
