Changes to the 1L curriculum at Osgoode Hall bring changes to their semester breaks as well. First-year law students are now lucky to receive a full reading week during the fall semester of classes, which has not happened at Osgoode for several years. During the 2023-2024 academic year, the first-years only had two “reading days.” Students in 1L-3L now have a whole week off in November. This is critical, especially in students’ first semester ever of law school. Previous cohorts of 1Ls may be envious of this change!
Reading week is important for the mental and physical well-being of students and their academic success. Whether it is used to actually read, to see loved ones, to travel, or to relax in bed, the week acts as a helpful mental health break for students. 1L is a rollercoaster and a huge learning experience, especially during the fall semester. The first-year fall semester reading week is arguably the most important break for law students. It provides a little time to take a step back, breathe and process the first couple months of school.
For many people, it is not easy to adjust to the amount and complexity of law school readings. It is common to fall a bit behind on readings and summary building throughout the semester as extracurriculars pick up and students try to balance their personal lives with the workload. Weekends hardly provide enough time to catch up. This full reading week should provide students ample time to read and advance positive mental health.
So, to you, 1Ls… enjoy your well-deserved break. Catch up on readings or schoolwork and see family or friends. Most importantly, take some time to relax and engage in healthy habits for your physical and mental health. Even one week off may allow you to return to school with a new and improved attitude—and more brain capacity—and an extra pep in your step!