Semester off?

College Life
1

<p>I'm a freshman right now in college and I'm having a bit of a hard time adjusting and focusing myself. I've realized lately that a lot of my issues seem to stem from severe anxiety and I have an appointment with the health center next week to meet with a psychiatrist, but I'm contemplating whether or not a semester off might help me too. </p>

<p>Socially, I love college. My roommate is awesome and the clubs I've joined are the highlights of my week. Academically, however, I'm less than thrilled. I find myself stressing over the simplest of assignments and it's beginning to take its toll on my health.</p>

<p>I came in with 23 credits from my AP classes so a semester off shouldn't prevent me from graduating on time. Since I plan on applying to vet school after undergrad I was thinking about working at a vet's office during the semester I take off. A close relative of mine lives near a vet's office that I've volunteered at before and both she and the vet are happy to take me any time. </p>

<p>Student loans are not a factor, but there's a chance my scholarships might not carry over. I would have to discuss it with my advisor/finance office. Despite that, would taking a semester off and working at a vet clinic be a good option? Or would it severely damage my chances of getting into vet school?</p>

2

<p>I don’t think it would hurt you at all. It would be like an engineering student co-oping during a semester, so it would be fine.</p>

<p>If it affects your scholarship though, I’d really think about it. Of course, that all depends on your financial situation.</p>

<p>Also, check to see if all those AP credits matter toward your degree. You may have gotten 23 credits, but maybe only 15 matter.</p>

<p>College is suppose to be tough academically (you know, unless you are a fine arts major or some humanities or something). Getting discouraged already and wanting to take a break doesn’t sound like the best option.</p>

3

<p>Consider that you have a month break between the end of this and next semester. That might provide plenty of time to clear your head and vest yourself with renewed interest in school. The scholarship issue depends on how financially healthy you are, the cost of your school, and how much/if any debt you want at the end. As far as taking a semester off affecting your chances to vet school, I would think it wouldn’t at all, but this is an unprofessional opinion, mind you.</p>