Starting on March 21, CMU students will throw books and papers aside in exchange for beaches and beer. Spring break is the only vacation from school during the spring semester, and the possibilities during this nine-day stretch are endless. It’s a great way for students to escape from the monotony of academic life and replace that monotony with adventure and excitement.

But should spring break be a break at all?

After eight long weeks of hard work and good grades, it’s well worth it to take time off. There’s nothing wrong with having the quintessential spring break experience, as long as it’s done safely. Potentially, spring break is nine days of adventure, relaxation and fun, and it doesn’t exist in the professional world. Students must relish it while they still can.

However, spring break is also an optimal time to study, improve grades and store some energy for the last leg of the semester. A week of rest and studying can turn B’s into A’s or D’s into C’s. It can be the difference between keeping or losing financial aid. There’s no more breaks or long weekends this semester—spring break may be the only chance to resurrect miserable course marks.

Although the name “spring break” alludes to some sort of vacation, it’s nine days off that can be used for almost anything. While beaches and beer may be tempting, spring break could be the only pathway to academic success.