Taking a Break Won’t Hurt You

Taking a gap year after my first year of college was a pivotal decision in my life, one born out of necessity and a deep desire for personal growth. As a 2020 high school graduate, I embarked on my college journey during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition to campus life and the shift to online learning proved to be incredibly challenging. It was completely different from the vibrant college experience I had envisioned.

Between the academic hurdles and the mental strain I was under, dropping out was never an option for me. I knew I had the potential to succeed academically, but I also recognized that my mental health was suffering and needed attention. So, I made the brave choice to take a gap year. During that time, I juggled two full-time jobs as an after-school counselor and a warehouse associate, gaining valuable life experience and financial independence.

In the midst of it all, I decided to follow another passion of mine. I enrolled in beauty school and dedicated myself to obtaining my esthetician license within six months. This was a transformative road that allowed me to explore my creative side and connect with people differently. I met so many wonderful people that I now get to call my friends. Simultaneously, I leaped moving into my first apartment and buying a car, reaching milestones that proved my growing independence.

Rather than viewing my gap year as the end of my academic journey, I saw it as an opportunity for self-discovery and adventure. It was during this time that I ventured out into the world, exploring new horizons and realizing my potential. Ultimately, I decided to return to school with a newfound sense of purpose, resilience, and a clear vision of my goals. My gap year was a defining chapter in my life that helped me evolve into a stronger, more determined individual, ready to tackle the challenges of college.

-Taty <3