In some circumstances, taking time off from school is the best thing you can do. If you're facing medical difficulties, academic trouble or maybe just want a chance to explore life outside college, time off can do you good. Check into options and requirements before taking a break.
Gaining from Leaving
In some cases, taking time off can mean the difference between an unsuccessful college experience and a rewarding one. "If you're not happy there - for whatever reason - your grades are going to suffer," says Mary Jo Custer, director of student affairs at Syracuse University.
But even if the leave of absence isn't your choice, time off can have a positive effect. You can take the time to collect yourself, reassess your attitude and return to school with renewed excitement and commitment. "Some high school seniors are definitely ready for college. Some are definitely not, but they go because they succumb to peer pressure or parental pressure," Custer says.
If you're one of those people, consider that time off can help you:
- put your educational and career goals in perspective
- explore a profession before committing to a particular major
- gain skills that you could not find at school
- experience a new environment and new people
- get more out of your time at school when you return
Applying to Leave
Before taking time off, learn your school's policies for taking a leave of absence. Many schools require that you complete and submit an application - or at least submit a written request. You'll most likely need to apply well in advance of your term or year off. And in some cases (e.g., if your reasons are medical or financial), you may need to supply supporting documentation to justify your leave.
There may be additional stipulations governing your leave of absence. Some schools put a limit on the number of terms you can be away, while others may not restrict readmission. Some schools require voluntary-leave students to finish at least one full academic year before allowing time off. Some restrict the number of students taking leaves in any given semester, but allow students to petition the dean for an exception.
To learn your school's policies, check your college handbook. It's also a good idea to meet with an academic advisor to discuss your options. Your advisor can help guide you through the process, and may suggest other options if you decide a leave of absence isn't the solution.
Returning to Academics
Depending on where you go, policies for re-enrolling vary. At some schools, you're asked a simple question that requires only a short answer: "What did you do in your time off?"
But other schools require much more, anything from an essay to a readmission contract to attending a special workshop for students who leave for academic reasons. Depending on the circumstances of your leave, you may have to meet certain GPA minimums in order to remain a student upon return.
And at most schools, students must meet with an academic counselor on their way out and on their way back in. If academic strings are attached to a student's leave, then the university will provide guidance to help them get back on track when they return.
Returning to School Life
If your leave lasts several years or more, then coming back to school might be a culture shock. Give yourself time to readjust and take advantage of academic and social counseling services that your school offers.
And plan ahead for your return by finding out about what you'll need to do once you get back. What will you need to do to apply for housing for your return? What classes will be offered when you return?
Your school wants to see you graduate, and if it means giving you some time off, that's better than seeing you drop out or fail. The key is to work with your school so you can return - and succeed.
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