<p>I’m basing my opinion on the type of schools you’re targeting, so I don’t think you should take a semester off. I don’t think admissions will look on that as kindly as they would you going back to UMD, doing another semester of great grades, and continuing to be involved in clubs. As for the anxiety that atmosphere is giving you, you’re going to have to learn to say no when you dont want to party. Try and find a good roommate(especially if you’re living off-campus and co-signing) who you can live harmoniously with. And most of all, really take what’s left of your summer to heal yourself emotionally and focus on the great friends you have at UMD and your goals. Good luck! You can do it.</p>
<p>Keep the nose to the grindstone. Whatever will churn out the diploma faster is worth the trouble. Just think - half a semester is at the opportunity cost of six months’ income give or take. For the average graduate, that is about $20K, and who thinks it is worth $20K to procrastinate? Time is indeed money.</p>