<p>I study at Rutgers and I just finished a study abroad program in Europe and I have been in Europe since December (still here). The costs were incredibly high, tuition and living expenses. I decided to study this fall semester, but I want to take a leave of absence next January so I can work full time to be able to pay off all my study abroad loans ($17k in just one semester). I have every intention of going back to school next Fall, but I will be volunteering for my major - 40 hours a week in the Fall of 2015 plus a few classes. So, if I don't work full time January semester, I will be incredibly behind in the Fall 2015 semester to pay off student loans (and for living expenses as well) since I will be volunteering. I plan on also pursuing graduate school, will taking a leave of absence look bad for employers and graduate schools? Thanks!</p>
<p>I can’t speak for employers and grad schools, but to me it looks like a very mature and fiscally responsible thing to do. As long as you don’t mess up course sequencing, it actually looks like a well thought out plan. It makes sense and is easily explainable, even laudable. Good luck!</p>
<p>@ngomes80 Where are you studying this fall? Why are you still there?</p>
<p>Can you make 17000 after taxes and expenses in that time?</p>
<p>I’m going back to NJ to study at Rutgers this fall. I studied from January - June in Europe and I am staying here for a few more days.(took the chance and to travel around) @Sdgal2 </p>
<p>@kandcsmom No, but wouldn’t that be great</p>