By Sydney Franklin, Andrew J. Hollandsworth, Sierra Plese
Sophomore Nathan Cachiaras is spending Spring Break in an unconventional way, according to a recent survey conducted by the Stampede. For half the week, he will be on duty as a resident assistant in Webb Hall. For the remainder, he’s joining his family in Seven Springs, Penn. “where you can practically ski out the front door.”
“I am excited for a change of pace, productive reading, long drives in the sun (hopefully), and fresh snow on the mountain (also hopefully),” said Cachiaras, “but most of all good times spent with my favorite people in the world.”
Last Thursday, Feb. 20, the Stampede passed out and collected 103 surveys in the cafeteria and the Grill during lunch hour to collect a representative sample of students’ Spring Break whereabouts. Students detailed where they’re going and how they’re spending Spring Break this year.
The Stampede found that nearly 52 percent of all undergraduate students at Milligan College are going home to see family for Spring Break. Thirty-five percent of those surveyed are going on vacation with friends and about six percent are spending it on a family vacation.
While Cachiaras crosses into two categories this year, most students are simply driving home for some fun and relaxation. The Stampede found that 53 percent of students surveyed will mostly be sleeping.
Some will be dozing through the day and others will be traveling. Senior Matt Rees is feeling “senior-ish” according to his survey response, and will be trekking it to St. Augustine, Fla. with friends
“In the past, I’ve gone home or traveled to visit with my girlfriend,” said Rees. “I’ve been to Florida before, but not for Spring Break. I’m looking forward to relaxing and relating with the good friends I’ve gained in college.
Approximately thirty-six of the 103 students surveyed said they will catch up on homework over break, while 21 will be working at a job. Eight people will spend their time on a missions trip or volunteering.
Aki Medhurst is headed to New Orleans with the campus missions club Apostolos.
“We will be working through Crossroad’s Missions,” said Medhurst. “I’m just excited about new experiences and helping people.”
The Milligan softball team will pitch their tents on and off campus, playing 12 games in eight days this Spring Break. This tradition is “good team bonding time,” according to player Meghan Nicol.
Junior Emily McGee said that if she weren’t committed to softball, she would spend Spring Break in Panama City Beach at her grandmother’s house with family. But playing over break has its advantages.
“Coach usually puts our longer travel games on Spring Break so we don’t miss much class,” said McGee. “I’d rather play over Spring Break than miss multiple days of class.”
Twenty-six percent of students surveyed said they can’t afford a real trip this year and 13 percent are saving up for a bigger trip like the humanities tour, an internship or Spring Break 2015.
Whether you’re Spring Break consists of traveling, sleeping or playing sports, some time away from the daily routine of classes is always a good thing — and also a time to refine certain skills.
“To say I’m a good skier would probably be criminal, as I have never had formal training,” said Cachiaras. “I just like to go fast. I hope to attempt and survive all of the Black Diamonds at the resorts, checking them all off the list.”
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