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Before Your Break: Preparation

Taking time off from school is a big decision, and thoughtful planning can set you up for success. This section will guide you through key considerations, from financial planning to goal setting, so you can make the most of your break with confidence and clarity.

Taking a gap year, stopping out, or temporarily leaving school, has been a practice for many years, often seen in students who need time off for personal reasons, financial challenges, or other commitments.

Historically, gap years were less common and often stigmatized, but attitudes have evolved over time.

HISTORY & BACKGROUND

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MOTIVATIONS & REASONS

What prompted your decision to take a break?

You might take a gap year to focus on your health or support a family member, work full-time to manage financial needs, take a break to recover from burnout, or gain real-world experience through a job or internship. Some students step away to rethink their academic or career goals, while others use the time to travel, volunteer, or dive into a personal project they’re passionate about.

What makes it hard to take a gap year?

You might worry about falling behind your peers, losing the academic momentum you've built, or risking scholarships and financial aid. It’s also common to feel unsure about returning to school later or to experience pressure from family and society to stick to a traditional path.

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MENTAL HEALTH

How does taking a gap year affect mental health?

Taking a gap year can provide much-needed relief from academic pressure and stress, allowing students to focus on self-care.

Conversely, it can also bring feelings of isolation, anxiety about the future, or guilt for not following a traditional path.

Mental Health Resources

You can access counseling services through your university or local community, join support groups specifically for students who have taken time off, and explore online resources and mental health apps to stay connected and supported throughout your time away.

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PREPARATION

Planning

Before taking time off, create a detailed plan that outlines your goals and a general timeline for your gap year. Staying in touch with your university throughout your break can also make the process of returning much smoother.

Support

Academic advisors can help you plan both your time away and your return to school, making the transition smoother. Support from family can also offer emotional stability and practical help throughout your break.

Communication with University

Be sure to officially notify your university if you plan to take a break. It’s also important to meet with your academic and financial aid advisors to fully understand how your time away might impact your academic standing, scholarships, or loans.

Resources

Academic advisors and career services can guide you in planning your time away and preparing to return. The financial aid office can explain how your break might affect loans or scholarships. Some schools also offer online communities to help you stay connected while you're away.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Delayed Graduation

Understand that taking a break will likely extend your time to graduate. Plan how this delay will impact your career and personal goals.

What Skills Do You Want to Focus On?

Identify and develop skills that will benefit your academic and career aspirations. Consider internships, online courses, or volunteer opportunities.

Scholarships/Student Loans

Check the status of your scholarships and loans. Understand the implications of stopping out on your financial aid.

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