We often hear our students say “If I don’t go to grad school now, I never will.”

The idea comes from a reasonable place. You probably have momentum in your studies. Taking a break after you graduate can feel like moving on, which is terrifying when you haven’t built contingency plans.

Although there are merits to going straight into graduate or professional schools, we think there are quite a few reasons to consider a gap year.

 

Avoid Burnout

After more than two decades of learning, you finally have a chance to take a break and read something you want. Even a year off can restore your love of academics and the unique learning environment only higher education provides.

Profound Experiences

Getting “out into the world” can offer you fresh perspectives. By taking a gap year, you have a chance to gain a fuller understanding of humanity, the concerns that shape cultures and narratives of humanity’s resilience that you will bring with you into graduate school.

Understand Yourself

In a gap year, you apply the skills you’ve learned at CU Boulder while finding out more about yourself. How does being a good student play out in a different environment? Can you achieve your goals without more education? Why does the degree matter to you? Again, if all of your reflection points to a graduate degree, it gives you a renewed sense of purpose that carries you further in the challenges ahead.

We think the gap year is best when it’s planned intentionally. Use these tips to get the most out of your experience:

    Pick an Experience that Aligns with your Passions

    If you’re interested in medical school, try working at a hospital. If you want to study justice issues, check out Peace Corps. Find an experience that will, hopefully, result in you rediscovering the best of what your field offers.

    Build your Résumé

    We’re talking about more than job experience. Pick adventures that give you something to talk about. Your graduate school essay will be the first place you’ll benefit.

    Get Paid

    Many gap year programs and experiences offer the chance to earn income. Some even offer free room and board on top of a monthly stipend. If you arrange it well, you might be able to save enough for your first year of graduate school tuition.