.Student Life Fills Reading Days
Following the cancellation of spring break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Student Life led efforts to provide Boilermakers with stress-relieving activities on Purdue Reading Days.
Reading Days were created in lieu of spring break to alleviate student stress by giving students a day off from classes to catch up on classwork or focus on their well-being. One Reading Day was held in the fall semester, with three following during the spring – one each in February, March and April.
Purdue Student Government played a lead role in the creation of Reading Days. PSG, in partnership with University Senate, helped move the proposal forward for consideration by university administration.
Students who wanted to block time to get away from studying could enjoy virtual or in-person events that complied with local and state guidelines. Purdue Student Union Board hosted midweek showings of movies in Fowler Hall and worked with Purdue Memorial Union to offer tours of the PMU Ground Floor Renovation to interested students. Civic Engagement & Leadership Development hosted a social change film series, which provided students with the opportunity to enjoy a film while learning about and discussing social issues.
Resident assistants and hall clubs provided opportunities for students who didn’t want to commit to participating in scheduled activities. Many residence hall leaders and clubs worked to distribute snacks to students or offer open time blocks for students to gather in small groups and take a break.
The ChillZone, located at the corner of Third Street and Martin Jischke Drive in front of Krach Leadership Center, provided another outlet for students to relax. This area was created specifically as a place for students to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. The area featured fire pits, outdoor lighting and seating, and opportunities to check out gaming equipment from Krach.
