Guess what. Spring break is creeping just around the corner, and you have a big decision to make. What will you do with a week of no school, no projects and greatest of all, pure relaxation? As young, adventurous college students, our boredom tends to spur some less-than-bright ideas. It seems the more available time we have, the less constructive we become.
Unfortunately, as young adults in our early 20s, sometimes we forget we are not invincible. We make impulsive and irrational decisions without much thought of the consequences. But there is a difference in having a good time and being destructive. So, in the most tolerable way possible, that I’m sure mothers everywhere would appreciate, let’s review some spring break safety rules.
The website Safespringbreak.orgprovides some great reminders for keeping your spring break fun and sensible. Let’s start from the beginning. While you’re on the road, do not forget to buckle up!
With Mississippi’s now active “Click it or ticket” law, you definitely need to make sure you keep it in check so you don’t pay the price with your cash or life. We all like to jam out to the radio on road trips with our besties, but remember you never know what could happen. Being safe is much more important than practicing those old dance moves.
If you have ever wondered what floor is the best to stay on in a hotel, it’s somewhere between the first and sixth floors. First floor rooms are easy to break into and rob, while anything above the sixth floor is generally too high for a fire ladder to reach in the event of an emergency. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of people stealing my things, and if the building were to burn down, I’d like to get out.
Do not keep crazy amounts of cash on you while you’re hitting up town. Crime still happens during times like spring break, and believe it or not, people might try to rob you. Always have a backup plan in case something happens to your funds and people you can rely on to help you out.
It’s never a bad idea to overcompensate for the amount of funds you need in the event you need money for an unexpected cost while on vacation.
I know, or at least hope, that as my fellow students most of you try to at least act like responsible adults. It is inevitable that people are going to party over vacations, especially spring break. Ever heard of Panama City or Miami beach? Yeah, I think we are all on the same page. Be responsible. I know that is said over and over, but seriously, think before you drink.
If you’re going to get crazy, don’t be ridiculous with it, especially if you are traveling to a popular spring break site. You’re going to be around hundreds of people you don’t know who probably do not have your best interests at heart.
Mommy and Daddy are not there to watch you and probably don’t want to get a phone call hearing you’re in jail for being stupid in public. Surprisingly enough, it is possible to have fun without alcohol, but that’s another conversation for another time.
These are supposed to be the best years of our lives. Most of us have plenty of disposable income to blow on vacations, trips, concerts and most importantly, late-night Waffle House visits. Enjoy the opportunities you have while being smart with the time you’re given. Eventually, most of us will decide we have to grow up and act like adults and will not be allotted these chances to be young again.
As many of us will be hitting up the nearest beaches with our best friends, or taking the slopes with a group this spring break, make sure to have a good time. Whatever you decide to do, I encourage you to make wise decisions with your newfound free time.
There is nothing wrong with being a responsible adult while enjoying some time off.
Have a great spring break 2011, and see everyone in a few days. 
 
Sarah Ulmer is a sophomore majoring in communication. She can be contacted at [email protected].