Winter break starts on December 12 at EF Academy. The students from all around the world are packing up already and can’t wait to head back to the homes they’ve been missing. In this article, the International Changemakers will tell you why the break is so meaningful for international students and what you can do during the break.
As the cold weather settles in, Christmas on December 25 and New Year’s on January 1 are just around the corner. A variety of activities are waiting for students and families to do. From drinking hot chocolate to going to Christmas markets or snowboarding in the mountains, enjoying fireworks, and gathering with friends, the season brings people together. As EF Academy students head home for winter break, these celebrations and activities reconnect relationships and give students even more to look forward to during the holiday.
According to 12th grader Iris Ryu, going home means much more than just taking a break. “I’m going back to Korea, which is my home country, and I’m going to Japan to celebrate Christmas and New Year,” she said. “I can’t wait to see my family, my friends, and my two cats because I’ve missed them a lot.” She continued, “I’m also turning 18, which is a big milestone in Korea.” Ryu is excited to celebrate with her friends and enjoy the holidays in Japan.
Another student, Mei Hei, who is a junior from Costa Rica, shared, “I want to meet my friends that I haven’t seen for months.” And during the break, Hei has a lot planned: “I’m going to hang out with friends, get my driver’s license, adult ID, do some work, and dive into study.”
Winter break also means reconnecting with loved ones. For seniors like Shijirbold Chintumur, “I'm traveling to Thailand, China, Macao, and Singapore,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to seeing my family and meeting my friends in another country. I just want to catch up with people, have a little freedom, and do whatever I want.”
To end on a caring note, the school nurse, Christianna Gutierrez, shared her thoughts about the break. “Yes, I am definitely looking forward to the holiday—it’s a time to recharge, relax, and spend time with family, which is my favorite part of the holiday,” she said.
Nurse Christianna also encouraged students to make the most of their time away from EF Academy. “Enjoy being with friends and family, and do the activities that bring you joy.” As a final reminder, she added, “Don’t forget to schedule any necessary doctor’s appointments while you can take care of your health before coming back.”
