Wild parties, day trips to different states, dinners in Georgetown and nights at the movies – all before finals. According to many students reading week does not just mean late nights poring over books.
Sophomore Colleen King said she does not like to study during reading week.
“Reading week in the biggest party time during the year, because everyone is free and trying to relieve their stress,” King said.
She said the days before finals provide a last chance to go out with friends before winter break.
King said she and her friends are thinking about taking a trip to New York City for a day. Last year she went home to Cleveland.
“Reading week puts such a dent in my wallet,” she said.
If she stays in the area, King said she likes to go shopping at Tyson’s Corner or in Old Town Alexandria, Va.
For students blowing off the books to venture out of D.C.. Old Town Alexandria in Virginia is hosting the “Second Thursday Art Night.” Off the King Street Metro stop, the art galleries on King Street and throughout Old Town will stay open late with special exhibits and foods from nearby restaurants. The event is free to the public on the second reading day, Thursday, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Freshman Marc Trombetta said he only has two exams and plans to use the days off to explore D.C.
“I want to do things around D.C. that I have not gotten around to this semester,” Trombetta said.
The outdoor ice skating rink, located in the National Gallery’s Sculpture Garden, allows students to take in the fresh air, some exercise and a glimpse at D.C. at night.
While freshman Jennie Hirschfeld said she is stressed about finals, she said she would make time for a little low-key fun.
“I’ll go out for dinner and see movies for study breaks,” Hirschfeld said.
The I-MAX theatre in the National Museum of Natural History shows educational films for students feeling guilty about skipping studying.
Current shows include Africa: The Serengeti, Journey Into Amazing Caves in 2D and The Galapagos in 3D.
Senior Michael Fontella said his schedule during the reading days will consist of studying during the afternoon and going out to bars at night.
“I think the reading week is really helpful,” Fontella said. “The first part is for unwinding, and the second is for studying.”
Senior Christina Powers said that there is hope for fun for those students with too much work to leave campus.
“The library turns into a social gathering spot,” Powers said. “You can see people you have not seen in awhile.”
For those studying in the library, the end of the week will offer a new treat. Gelman Library will hold a coffee break on the 4th floor Thursday.
The University will sponsor other similar events, free of charge, to help relieve student stress.
The Hippodrome will offer a massage therapist, mini golf and reduced-price bowling. J Street will host Midnight Breakfast Wednesday. Festivities begin at 10:30p.m.
-Elizabeth Brown contributed
to this report
