Hey Hawkeyes, we are almost halfway through the spring semester. How crazy! This means spring break is right around the corner. Whether you are traveling or not, continue reading to make sure you know how to prepare yourself for this time!

For Classes:

• Before spring break, mid-terms and papers are common. Keep your hard work from the beginning of the semester up and prepare for these early (like now!) so you are not stressed.
• Make sure you don’t have any assignments right when you return from break. You shouldn’t have anything due while the University is not in session, but sometimes professors assign due dates the first thing on the Monday classes are back in session. Don’t let this catch you by surprise!

For Going Home Or Staying On Campus:

• It is important to note that all residence halls close at 5pm on the Friday spring break starts (3/8/24) and will not re-open until the last Sunday of spring break (3/17/24) at 8am. If you are planning to be in the residence hall in between this time at any point (it is free!), you must submit your spring break plans in the housing portal by 3/6/24. This will ensure your IowaOne card has access to your building.
• Plan your meals! Going home or staying on campus during spring break can be a wild time when it comes to adjusting to getting meals at your normal times. If you are on campus during spring break, note the following:
  • Dining halls will close on Friday, March 8, at 2:00pm
  • Limited retail dining locations will be open during the break:
    • Power Café: March 9 – March 17, 10am – 8pm
    • Union Station: March 11 – March 15, 8am – 4pm
    • Filling Station: March 11 – March 15, 7am – 3pm
    • EMRB: March 11 – March 15, 7:30am – 3pm

For Traveling Somewhere Fun:

• Make sure you have all your necessary documents on hand (passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, etc.). Different break plans such as flying versus a cruise require different identification, know what you need!
• Pack early! The last thing you want to do is be packing for spring break after your last midterm just to find out you left your swimsuit at home. Make sure you have all your essentials now, and keep the ones you aren’t using daily in the suitcase or bag you are planning to bring on your trip. This way, you will know early if you need to go shopping, make an online order, or make a trip home to get what you need.