The Observer, March 30, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 22
Ask Amy...
You have slaved over studying for the MCAT, GRE, LSAT, and/or the GMAT. You are stressed over letters of recommendation, living arrangements, papers and group projects. You have been in school for years and burnout is seeping in. You've hit a stumbling block – a looming thesis, a financial crisis, or an emotional meltdown, and you need a break! But does taking a hiatus from your education mean throwing it all away? Luckily, more students than ever are deciding to take a hiatus before their graduate careers. Once seen as the realm of slackers or failures, the stigma of "taking a break" has eroded as individuals take a more serious look at students' mental health. Far from being the death knell of your educational career, your job prospects or your life, taking a break can open doors you never thought existed – and clear the way for a more productive and constructive educational experience.
Taking time off of school presents two issues – the short and long term. Make sure that you have clearly defined goals for your time off, whether you choose to travel, work or relax, and that you have thought about your possible re-entry into your studies. A break from school is a great time to get in some international travel, work at an interesting internship or job in another field, or even do some temp work. Sometimes a change in location is all you need to help redefine your personal goals and aspirations, but going home might be just what you need to regroup and recharge. This is your time – make good use of it. Whatever you choose for your time off, make sure that your emotional and mental needs are being supported.
Here are a few opportunities Case students have pursued during their breaks…
Peace Corps
Peace Corps Volunteers serve for two years, and are matched by skill and background to a community in a developing country, helping to improve opportunities and the quality of life in a number of areas including education, agriculture, business, health, community development, and the environment. All majors are welcome to apply.
Peace Corps Volunteers are supported with a monthly stipend, health/dental care, student loan deferment, transportation, $6000 or more after completion of service, plus graduate school opportunities. For more information, attend the following information session or visit www.peacecorps.gov.
Peace Corps Information Session
Thwing Center, Spartan Room
Wednesday, April 4 from 6-8 p.m.
AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs that engage more than 50,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. AmeriCorps members serve through more than 2100 nonprofits, public agencies, and faith-based organizations. They tutor and mentor youth, build affordable housing, teach computer skills, clean parks and streams, run after-school programs, and help communities respond to disasters. For additional information, visit www.americorps.org
Teach For America
Teach For America is the national corps of outstanding recent college graduates of all academic majors who commit two years to teach in urban and rural public schools and become lifelong leaders in the effort to expand opportunity for children. For additional information, visit www.teachforamerica.org.
BUNAC
The British Universities North America Club (BUNAC) is a non-political, non-profit, member's organization. BUNAC programs offer an easy way to travel and experience the everyday life and culture of other countries. Thousands of students from the US and elsewhere take part in a BUNAC work or volunteer program overseas each year. Locations include Britain, Australia, New Zealand, London, Dublin, Ireland, Canada and more! For more information, visit www.bunac.org.
