How to make the most of reading week

Reading weeks are a part of university life, just like a half-term break was at school. It’s a chance to enjoy a week without lecturers and seminars, but there is still plenty to do.

Do you remember the excitement when a half-term break (or even better, an end of term break) was just around the corner at school? Well, reading weeks are exactly the same.

Here’s how you can get the most out of reading weeks while you’re studying at the University of Lincoln.

Relax

First and foremost, reading weeks (or ‘independent study weeks’) are a chance to have a little break.

Relaxing is important. Reading weeks are perfect for having a mini break (a mini retirement as Gary Neville would put it) away from your studies. Even if it’s only for a couple of days during the week, putting aside university work is important from time to time.

It’s not an excuse to let work get on top of you though, but we’ll get to that later.

Visit friends and family

Reading weeks are perfect for visiting friends and family, especially if they don’t like too far away.

During those weeks I always go home for a few days or visit friends at different universities. It’s a nice change of scenery (even if Lincoln is as nice as it is) and great for catching-up with those close to you.

Catch-up

Speaking of catching-up. Reading weeks aren’t just for relaxation and having a good time. They are called reading weeks after all!

If you have any out-dated work or independent study, reading weeks allow you to catch-up – whether its notes, assignment prep or research.

Also, you can use reading weeks to ‘get ahead’. It’s a great way to manage your workload and keep everything in check.

Socialise

Finally, socialising. If you’ve relaxed, visited your loved ones, caught-up on work, then what else is there left to do?

Lincoln is a hub of activity during term time, with everything from cocktail bars and student-friendly pubs to live music and exciting events in the city.

There is always something new and exciting to try out, whether it’s a new place for a drink or a walk around a part of the city you haven’t explored yet.

Reading weeks are a blessing, like a pause in the middle of a semester’s hustle and bustle. If you follow these few tips, you’ll be sure to make the most out of them during your time in Lincoln.