<p>I am finishing up my first semester here at school. I'm applying to a few schools for Fall 2012. Would it look bad if I took next semester off? I wouldn't be sitting on my bum, I'd most likely be interning (have an internship lined up for the most part), and maybe taking a couple classes at a closer school just for the sake of credits.</p>
<p>I know they don't see the grades from next semester in the transfer app because they're mostly due March/April, but I understand it looks kind of flaky to take the semester off. So, I would like to take the semester off, but if it would compromise my chances at transferring next fall, I'd probably return to school.</p>
<p>Any input would be much appreciated! Thanks, and keep on keepin' on.</p>
<p>Well, if you take the semester off, you’re risking a lot.
- Your high school grades will probably be the deciding factor.
- If you don’t do well 1st semester, you’re kind of screwed since you don’t show any trend.
- It doesn’t look like you have a compelling reason to take the semester off, so that doesn’t look too good.</p>
<p>It isn’t impossible, but I think taking a semester off shows the college you want to transfer to that you gave up on your school (unless you have an amazing reason). An internship is not a compelling reason, by the way. (Unless it’s saving the polar bears from extinction or some crazy stuff like that)</p>
<p>as long as your high school stats are guaranteed to get you in and your first semester grades are consistent, i see no problem with that. just make sure you mention about your internship. internships to me are legitimate commitments.</p>
<p>My high school grades aren’t quite good enough (89 W) to get me in which is why I hope my better grades this semester (3.5-3.8) could come through for me. I am attempting to show an upward trend since high school, which is the main reason why I am hesitant to take the semester off. As for legitimate reasons, there is nothing too urgent, I just believe I’d be happier for the time being, and I’d be saving some money. As far as the internship goes, it would not be saving polar bears, but it would be with a company that gives vocational training to homeless people, war vets, and some disabled people and helping them find jobs through a number of connected organizations. I would be interning there this summer, and it’s something I just really want to do (and would prefer over the school I am now). Thanks, guys, for the opinions. It’s good to have different eyes on these ideas!</p>