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Is it better to take time off right out of college?

What are your thoughts on this? A lot of people have asked me if I am going to take a gap year or go backpacking for a few months. I'd like to know if there is a way to make this travel experience relevant to PR and maybe find a way to use it as a work experience type of thing. Thoughts? #PR #Traveling #gapyear #graduating

I'd like to hear from someone who took time off and what they feel they gained from it.

It may also be helpful to hear from someone who didn't and why they think that is the best choice.

Also, if someone could provide ideas for how to make traveling a work experience type of thing, that would be helpful as well.

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Munazza’s Answer

I took a couple of months before I started my first job. I went on a vacation during that time and it was good as it allowed me to refocus and prepare my mind for the corporate world.
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Kylee’s Answer

This is a great question! From my experience, if you can take time off after college and before a full-time job, you should definitely do it. My dad has preached to me that he wishes he would have done it when he graduated college. It gives you a nice break before you are in the real world for a few years. Here are a couple of ways you can approach this scenario: First, if you have already accepted or are interviewing for a job, ask them what their start date is, and how flexible that start date is. If they are willing to work with you, then there is your answer. However, if they have a hard start date, you will have to consider how bad you want this job vs how bad you want to travel. If you have not applied to jobs yet, your second option could be to wait. Go have the fun you want to have, and when you are ready, begin applying for jobs. I would only recommend this option if you are financially stable, and can afford to put off your start date.
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Amelia’s Answer

Great question Lauren! In my experience, if you can take time off right after college you should definitely do it! I took the summer after graduation off and I was able to travel to Europe for 5 weeks and spend time with my family before starting my job. By taking time off, I was able to recharge and reconnect with friends I did not have the opportunity to see very often while I was in college. Another point to consider is whether or not you plan to go back to school later. I studied for the graduate school entrance exams (GRE and GMAT) so that I could take them and get them out of the way. I am very thankful that I did this because once I started my job, my schedule became really crazy and I had minimal control over my schedule.

Amelia recommends the following next steps:

Make a list of everything you want to do before you start your job
Examine your financial situation and determine if you can afford to put off your start date
Find out what start dates your company offers
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Theresa’s Answer

Hopefully, your chosen career is also a passion for you. If yes, anything you do will naturally support this; whether it's travel or even waitressing. Doesn't matter. You will find a way to grow yourself through life experiences or internships or whatever you choose. Just keep moving and change as often as necessary. t
Thank you comment icon Hi Theresa. Thanks for your comment. Lauren
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