Take a BREAK

This weekend, I took another trip down to Charlottesville to visit my sorority sisters. We had four new members come out, so dozens of our sisters from other parts of the country and other chapters came down to celebrate the occasion. Here's a photo:

It was an amazing day! Two of our chapter founders (holding the shield in the front) even came down to welcome the new members. And I must say, this was a MUCH NEEDED VACATION. Even though we were only there for the day and had to leave that night, I can't tell you how much I appreciated getting the chance to go back to a place I consider home and spend time with people I care about.

Of course, I want you to know that I have made, and you will make, wonderful friends here who you will keep for life. While I was at dinner this weekend, even, I was texting my two closest friends from GSE. But you are going to realize, as I did, that grad school is exhausting! I love it, and I love working at my practicum, but it starts to wear you out after a while. And that's why I think it's so important to take a break. During spring break, I stayed in Philly to get some hours in at practicum and save some money, and although I was successful in that, and did have some time off from school, I wish I had taken the opportunity to just chill out on a beach somewhere.

No matter how great the program is going or how much you love working at your site, always remember that your own mental health comes first. Take a trip to visit your undergraduate institution, your family, or your friends. Whatever you do, make sure you're treating yourself.