I took off an entire year before my first degree after high school and just took language classes for fun, and it was the best thing I could have done to settle into my undergrad degree when I eventually went. The truth is, people who discourage it tend to do so because they think you will need to play catch up but there is actually nothing to catch up to, its just arbitrary standards about what you should do and when. It will never be too late to do and become the things that you want. But when you are burnt out, and need a mental health break, especially when you have avenues to take a break, you should listen to your body and do it.
How you use your gap semester is up to you, whether its getting more sleep or taking some pottery classes for fun, but I found it fulfilling to have a break where I was not just running on a hamster wheel, worrying myself sick about my miles long to do list. And I was the better for it when I went to uni afterwards, I was more focused and I had a better understanding of what I wanted out of my academic career. So yeah, do it, the refresh is more likely to help than it is to harm, just be balanced in how you use it e.g. do some hobbies now that you aren't beholden to the school schedule, don't jam pack your time away and come back tired etc
Aug 12, 2024
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kind of regret not doing this myself, especially during my absolutely cooked COVID semesters during undergrad. now having completed undergrad and grad school, i am more convinced than ever of the truth that as much if not more learning happens outside the classroom, and certainly more personal growth. had i been of this mindset while i was still a student, i probably would have taken a gap semester at some point.
i think if you need it solely as a reprieve from academic burnout, then by all means get some much needed rest, but if you can take a gap semester that would be also personally edifying in another way, absolutely go for it! maybe take on an internship, maybe do some traveling, maybe do some reading on topics you're tangentially interested in but aren't the core focus of your studies, maybe take time and invest in relationships, or pour into your hobbies, grow yourself in ways that make you a more well rounded and fulfilled person. the school to career pipeline exists for convenience and isn't going anywhere. take your time.
Aug 9, 2024
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Even if you study the statistically highest earning major, that doesn’t guarantee you a job. Unless you’re going for something ultra specific, most jobs just want to see that you have the guts to finish a degree, it doesn’t matter so much what it is. If you have a passion, follow it! It’ll make your time in school that much more enjoyable.
I started college majoring in materials sciences and engineering at a big ten school bc math was my best subject but I was miserableeeee. I thought I had to do the hardest degree possible to be successful in life and I come from a long line of engineers. Now, I feel like I’m following some sort of calling studying apparel at a tech school. Even though it’s not as promising statistically. We’re all gonna die someday anyway.
Also!!! I majorly recommend taking a gap year. That year of real life outside of an academic setting can really sheepdog your priorities.
Feb 28, 2025
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I'm 42 and considering going back to grad school for a career change due to burnout in my current field. Flip that and tell yourself 23 is too young to be stuck in a career you feel apathetic towards. The learning can be done in smaller bits if needed, and you don't necessarily have to go all in. Be a part-time student at your own pace.
Aug 6, 2024
Top Recs from @ngaatee
Whether you need inspo, are curious about the discourse over the last few decades, want to get into a new hobby or whatever else, you can download open source magazine issues from decades past. They have magazines from as early as the early 1900s too! I have been obsessed with old video games lately so I have been looking at the old club nintendo magazines and it has been so fun. Like look at some of the covers these magazines used to have
Aug 7, 2024
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There is something about seeing someone be unconscious about something that they really love. The sincerity of it, the way they forget to be quiet if its in public, the way they gesture with their hands more. Its great 10/10 would recommend being passionate about your interests!
Jul 10, 2024
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It means my little cabbage in French and I just find it so cute and precious.
Jul 6, 2024