Canceling classes gave students a much-needed break

Canceling classes gave students a much-needed break

Canceled classes brought much about good. Courtesy | Twitter

When classes were canceled because of the ice storm, education did not stop at Hillsdale. These unexpected free days were a blessing to Hillsdale students and were an education in themselves. 

Semesters move so quickly that it can be easy to become overwhelmed with the stresses of deadlines. It can be easy to forget about what is most important to us. The two days off gave students the opportunity to refocus mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. 

Some friends and I returned from Ash Wednesday Mass Feb. 22 to a darkened dorm. While we tried to do some work, it was practically impossible with only flashlights and no internet. Our phones were dying, and so the only plausible option was to go to bed early. 

We were all exhausted and this early bedtime was just what we needed to rest our minds in the midst of a challenging semester. 

It is common for students to overwork themselves and run on little sleep. This can often lead to sickness and burnout. 

The stress of academics frequently pushes students to emotional breakdowns. In an article from the Harvard Law Blog, Meg Kribble found that some have even died due to over studying. Whether it be lack of sleep and nourishment or an abscess on the brain, the constant atmosphere of “go-go-go” leaves little space for emotional resets. 

These snow days were spent catching up on sleep, homework, and friendships. 

I was so pleased to see students taking advantage of this pause to grow spiritually, as well. Every day from Ash Wednesday to the first Sunday in Lent, we were able to attend Mass. 

Other students took the time to engage more fully in the day of prayer at Christ Chapel. 

Often we are too busy to fully enter in the season of Lenten preparation, and this year we were able to step back and root ourselves in faith at this important time. 

At Hillsdale, we are constantly reminded that “It’s the people.” It’s the people who bring Hillsdale to life. It’s the people that bring the faith alive. It’s the people who struggle and strive to meet the standards of this school. 

I was able to meet new people, create new friendships, and deepen ones I already made. I introduced myself to new people at the spontaneous events we planned, I was kindly offered a ride home by a new friend, and I had a sleepover with friends I already had. 

There was beautiful comradery and ingenuity as the campus sought to keep itself occupied. Whether it was spikeball in the Olds Residence lobby or a spontaneous bonfire at the Grotto, we were able to rest, recuperate, and root ourselves in faith and the people around us. 

The students had an opportunity to live out what they have been learning. In the midst of a challenging experience, we were able to glean the benefits. 

Hillsdale College certainly did not fail in educating its students in these days. The rest and reset with Christ at the center rooted the students as they prepared to return to the daily grind of academics.

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