Semester breaks are the most anticipated breaks from the usual study hours and stressful exam times. It’s the time when students want to relax and have some fun.
However, the last and very recent semester break they experienced was far from ordinary. With the political climate heating up in July and unforeseen challenges arising, many found themselves on unexpected journeys of activism and exploring the political history of Bangladesh.
Here’s how four students made the most of their break, turning a period of downtime into something much more impactful.
Hossain Sahal, an undergraduate Economics student from the University of Dhaka, tells us about his experience, “Our semester break started in June, so I spent most of that month watching movies and TV shows.
“I also worked on honing my cooking skills and picked up a part-time job. When the quota movement protests began in July, I tried to participate as much as possible, and as the movement gained momentum, it became a central focus for me.”
“Since we don’t know when classes will resume yet, I’m using my spare time to focus on my job right now and I’ve also started reading more about history and politics, so that I am able to make more informed decisions.”
When asked how he plans to get back to study, Sahal admits it would be a bit tough, “To be honest, I think I will need a push to go back to my usual routine. So, that will most likely happen after our universities open again and classes resume. If things reach a state of normalcy, then I should be able to cope with studying again but I expect it will be a bit hard at the beginning.”
Mohammad Nakib, a student from BUET, rather had a quite unexpectedly long semester break which he tried to enjoy to the fullest.
Nakib says, “My term break was supposed to be for one month, June, but unfortunately it has been extended indefinitely.
“This semester break was special for me because in the two and a half years of varsity life, for the first time I was going to spend a carefree Eid vacation.
“When the next semester was about to start, I started struggling to get back into my study habit.
“By then, varsity teachers had already started to protest for their demands and the fate of starting the next semester started to become uncertain.”
While talking about his plans to get back to study, Nakib shares he has a plan, “I am still struggling to keep myself calm in the face of the onslaught of information. I am trying to limit myself from using Facebook.
“Currently, I am rummaging through some research papers to come up with new project ideas for the next semester. I have made up a list of things I have to learn for the new project and am tinkering with it.”
Nusrat Tasnim, a recent Architecture graduate from BRAC University, reflects on her undergraduate years, “After five demanding years of hustling in the field of Architectural studies, I was eagerly waiting for a semester break. I had envisioned a relaxing period of bliss but instead, the challenging situation within the country made me very indecisive.
“However, I learned to find joy in the small moments, connect deeper with loved ones, and cherish the chance to de-stress and discover myself, once again.”
Nusrat sounds pragmatic and enthusiastic as she talks about getting back to study, “Looking ahead, I plan to gain practical experience in architecture over the next 1 to 1.5 years. Following this period, I intend to return to academia to further advance my studies.”
Rifah Tasnia Purbita, an Economics major from the University of Dhaka had a quite adventurous beginning as she had the scope to have a family trip to Australia.
“The exams were over by the end of June, and I went on a vacation abroad as soon as possible. I spent two weeks in three beautiful states in Australia with my family.”
Purbita continues, “I came home to a country roaring with students protesting against injustice and discrimination and for ensuring their rights.
I immediately involved myself in solidarity with the demands. As I couldn’t physically take a stand earlier, I raised my voice online.”
She tells us how she plans to get back to study, “Getting back to studies after a long and stressful break can be tough, so I would start with small tasks like listing books and resources for the next semester. I will seek advice from seniors and plan for the elective courses in advance. Once classes begin, attending lectures and taking notes regularly should help me regain full focus.”
As their semester break ends, these students return to their studies with more than just memories of relaxation. Their experiences in activism and personal growth during a time of political unrest have shaped them in ways that will impact their future deeply.