As December draws near, students at SUNY Cortland are eagerly awaiting winter break, a time to unwind, reconnect with family, and celebrate the holiday season. For many, this break provides a rare chance to step back from busy academic schedules and recharge, with each student having a unique way of spending their time off.
“Family Time and Festivities”
Amber Hamernik, a senior at SUNY Cortland majoring in biology and heath, is looking forward to a relaxed break filled with family traditions. “Winter break is special because it’s one of the few times I get to be with my whole family,” she shares. For Amber, this means spending time baking cookies with her older siblings and decorating the family Christmas tree.
“The best part is the Syracuse tree lighting,” she adds, referring to the local holiday tree lighting in downtown Syracuse where everyone gathers around with their family to watch the lighting of the tree and where everyone can ice skate! “It really brings the community together, and I love seeing old friends with their families and catching up.”
“Home for the Holidays”
For some students, the end of exams signals a chance to travel home to rewind and catch up with the family about their past fall semester. Krista Flood, a senior from Long Island studying early childhood education, plans to drive home to spend the holidays with her family. “I’m excited to be back home,” Krista laughs. “But I will miss all of my roommates and my cheer team!”
Krista plans to catch up with high school friends, and enjoy home-cooked meals she’s missed while away. Despite being miles from Cortland, she acknowledges that “Cortland has started to feel like a second home.”
“Exploring New York and Beyond”
Others are looking to use the break to explore nearby cities and enjoy New York’s holiday magic. Audrey Norden, a senior at SUNY Cortland studying early childhood education, plans to visit New York City this break. “I’ve always wanted to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree,” she says. Audrey also hopes to check out the festive lights at Bryant Park’s Winter Village and go window shopping on Fifth Avenue.
Audrey’s winter break will also involve looking for school districts to teach at after college, but she’s optimistic that some sightseeing and holiday magic will balance the stress. “We don’t always get to experience a big city Christmas, so it’s something new and exciting.”
“Staying Local and Embracing Cortland’s Charm”
Not everyone plans to leave the area. Lyla Read, a sophomore at SUNY Cortland majoring in communications, prefers a laid-back winter break, filled with outdoor adventures. “My friends and I are going skiing at Greek Peak, which is something we’ve done every winter since high school,” she says. “I love how quiet it gets around here during the break. It’s peaceful.”
For Lyla, staying local also means taking time to volunteer at a food drive organized by a local community center. “I’m really grateful to be part of a town that cares about each other, especially during the holidays.”
A Season of Giving Back
In addition to personal plans, several students mentioned an eagerness to volunteer in the community during the holiday season. Various local organizations in Cortland host food and gift drives, providing opportunities for students and residents alike to make a positive impact. Whether it’s assembling care packages or helping out at shelters, the season inspires many to give back.
Looking Ahead to a New Year
As the year winds down, students are not only looking forward to relaxing but setting their sights on the upcoming semester as well. For many, winter break offers a chance to reset, refresh, and prepare for new academic and personal goals.
For Cortland students, winter break is more than just a pause from school—it’s a time to reconnect, reflect, and rejoice, all while embracing the spirit of the holiday season. Whether traveling far, staying close to home, or giving back to the community, each student’s plan reflects a different perspective, adding to the town’s vibrant holiday tapestry.