Spring break: the infamous mid-semester escape filled with beach trips, spontaneous travel, or simply the long-awaited chance to sleep. But for co-op students, the concept of spring break is a bit more complicated. While your peers might be packing their bags for Miami, you’re probably staring at your work calendar, wondering if taking time off is worth it. So, should you take a spring break while in co-op? Let’s break it down.
The Case for Taking a Break
- Burnout is Real – Co-ops are meant to be a learning experience, but they can also be intense. If your workload is piling up and you feel mentally drained, a few days off could be what you need to recharge. Studies show that taking breaks increases productivity, so you might actually come back stronger.
- You Have PTO (Maybe) – Some companies offer paid time off (PTO) even to interns and co-ops. If you’ve accrued PTO, taking a break won’t financially hurt you. It’s worth checking your company’s policy to see if you’re entitled to paid leave.
- Networking and Travel – Spring break doesn’t have to mean lying on a beach. You could use the time for a professional conference, a networking event, or even a visit to a potential future employer’s city. It’s a chance to mix relaxation with career growth.
The Case for Skipping Spring Break
- Perception Matters – While some companies fully expect co-ops to take time off, others might view it differently. If your team is in a busy season, disappearing for a week might not make the best impression. Before planning a trip, gauge your workplace culture.
- Missed Learning Opportunities – Unlike school, where missing a few lectures can be manageable, co-op is all about hands-on experience. If you’re working on a big project, stepping away could mean missing valuable learning moments (or coming back to a pile of work).
- Financial Reality – Most co-op students are working to build savings or pay for school. Taking a week off unpaid might not be feasible, especially if you’re budgeting carefully. If you really need a break but can’t afford to lose pay, consider a long weekend instead.
The Verdict? You do you.
If you can take time off without falling behind, feeling guilty, or losing pay, then go for it! But if your co-op is in a critical phase or you’re worried about making a strong impression, you might want to skip the traditional spring break trip and instead plan a more strategic time off later.
At the end of the day, spring break is what you make of it. Whether it’s a vacation, a staycation, or just an extra coffee break in the office kitchen, find a way to recharge—even if it’s just for a day.
