What if I told you that the best way to take a break from homework was to keep learning?

Oftentimes, we become so surrounded by our schoolwork that we resort to mindless pastimes to detox from it. How many of us are guilty of refreshing our Instagram feed in hopes of procrastinating for a few more minutes? Next time you’re away from the textbooks, don’t put a pause on your learning. You may be surprised at how productive and refreshed you feel. Here are some effortless ways to keep learning outside of the classroom.

Learn a new recipe.

If you’re not quite ready to *chef’s kiss* every meal you make, don’t worry. Following new recipes is an amazing way to learn. The options are endless, and it doesn’t take long to improve your chef skills. Cooking is a super practical skill, and just picking one day a week to devote to a new recipe is going to teach you something. If you’ve already graduated from “microwave university,” try exploring recipes from other countries. Learning their cooking methods and techniques will be a fun way to challenge and improve your skills in the kitchen. But beware… you’ll probably become the designated chef in your apartment.

Download learning apps.

Does Duo Lingo or Skillshare ring a bell? It’s 2020, and our smartphones are truly getting smarter than us. The best part is…they can teach us. If you’ve always wanted to learn a new language or skill, just head over to the app store. There are so many apps that combine learning and games to increase your knowledge. In fact, they’re so good at it, that you may not even realize that you’re learning! The apps are extremely user friendly, and oftentimes have a free version available. How cool would it be to say that you learned a new language during your study break? Sounds like a pretty sweet pastime to me.

Turn a page.

You probably saw this one coming, but that’s because it’s a tried and true tip. Flip down your phone and pick up a book. There are endless topics that can be taught through reading, much like a podcast. A great way to pick a book is to watch YouTube recommendations for your chosen topic. Books can help you learn through other peoples’ experiences, or even just lay out the facts for you. They also offer a great canvas to write down or highlight any new things that you learn. Reading is a bit more tedious and may require more focus, but it shouldn’t be avoided when outside of the classroom. It’s amazing how enjoyable a book can be when you’re eager to learn about the topic. Take advantage of your breaks from school to really enjoy a new read. You’ll definitely learn something each time you turn the page.

Swap your music for a podcast.

There’s nothing better than a good ole’ car jam session to take your mind off of work…or is there? Whether you like to jam while walking or driving, try a podcast next time. Podcasts have become extremely diverse, and there are shows that cover almost any topic. Think about your hobbies or career interests, and plug it into the podcast search bar. For example, my podcast library is filled with fitness tips, nutrition info, and college lifestyle hacks. You’re almost guaranteed to find a show covering your topics and expanding on them more than you’d ever think to. You could even search a question and find a podcast that not only answers your concern but elaborates and reflects on it. Next time you’re headed for a drive or a long walk, click on your podcast app. It could become your new favorite. 

Learning can be so much more than just a textbook or lecture. It’s never too late to learn a new skill, and the possibilities are endless. Do a little exploring and be open to what sparks your interest. Keep learning, and keep growing.

Be well, Auburn

Photography: Jordan K.