Spring Break

Spring break is full of beaches, parties and booze for many college students across the country even in these tough economic times. At Stony Brook University, students are getting ready to start their spring break and enjoy their week off from school; however, the economy is affecting some students' plans.

"Over 2.5 million students will travel to the beach for spring break, spending over $1 billion and drinking an average of 20 alcoholic beverages a day," said Dr. Chris Leland referencing American Demographics of 2005.

With the United States currently in a recession, some students just don't have the financial ability to travel during spring break. "I'll spend spring break relaxing and unwinding by being around family and friends," said Sophomore Sarah Myanda, 20. "I'm not traveling or anything because I can't afford it."

Even with the tight financial situation many people are dealing with, sometimes it's just as good to enjoy what's in your own backyard. "Since I haven't been working all year and haven't started my summer job yet I don't have money to just throw away on a vacation," said Freshman Lauren Kistulinec, 18. "I'm going to look for a new job, see a bunch of movies, spend time with my mother and take in all the beauty that is Long Island."

There are still some people that have the chance to enjoy spring break without the worrying about a lack of money. "I don't see why the economy is affecting students," said Sophomore Brian Tien, 19 whose spring break destination is Canada. "Most students don't hold corporate jobs which are really the ones under attack right now by the economy. Our flow of money hasn't been changed yet."

Still, even though a vacation might not been in the picture for spring break 2009, students still have their dreams. "My ideal spring break would be down in Florida on the beach," said Tien.

Kistulinec agrees although she'd rather not have to deal with the crazy atmosphere some places tend to be during spring break. "I would like to go away somewhere nice with my friends and not somewhere crazy like you see on TV," said Kistulinec. "Myrtle Beach would be nice. We can relax, but still have a nice time without travelling too far."