Most U.S. students will begin their winter holiday breaks this week. That break gives college-bound students extra time to prepare for college. Here are a few things college bound students should do to make the most out of the holiday break.

Research:
In between holiday shopping and partying, take a few minutes here and there to further research the career fields, colleges and college majors that you are interested in. You will soon begin receiving acceptance (and maybe, rejection) letters in the mail. Aside from online and traditional research, call some of the local businesses in your field of interest and ask if they allow students to shadow their employees for a day. You may gain some valuable insights into the career fields you are interested in and could also make some good networking contacts for future references.

Take a trip:
Call an admissions representative at the college you want to visit to see if they offer tours during the holiday break.

Read some tips on what to do during the college tour at http://bit.ly/ExtraCollege

Volunteer:
Does your high school require you to complete a certain amount of volunteer hours for graduation? Many colleges require applicants for admission to complete a certain amount of volunteer hours. Visit your local food bank, homeless shelter or social service agency as they always have a need for volunteers.

Don't want to leave the house? Call those same agencies and volunteer to design a logo, webpage or Facebook page for them. You're already going to be on your computer anyway, right?

Write:
If you haven’t yet completed your essays required for college admission applications or scholarship applications, this break is the best time to work on them.

If you plan strategically, you may be able to get out of having to visit your aunt on Christmas Eve. After all, what's more important, polishing off your essay or getting a new sweater you will never wear?

Relax:
Be sure to take some time to relax. College is important but so is your health. Take time to recharge yourself. Take a nap. Visit friends. Relax.