<p>I was thinking of graduating a semester early. I could complete my English and Econ requirements very easily through 8 week courses, and then I'd be home free. I'm just worried what colleges will think if I don't follow through with Senior Year. I know the apps go out before second semester and all they need is a mid-year report, which I will have, but would they rescind admission if they found out I did something else second semester? I'm applying to Yale, Wellesley, Duke and a few LACs.</p>
<p>I couldn't take the AP tests because I'm not a 'high school student,' but most of the places I want to go to don't take credit worth magic beans anyway. I'm trying to get an internship at the local Guidant company (biomedical engineering) or at the Orange County Supreme Court where my father works. I could take some college classes at the JC, too. Is this a good idea?</p>
<p>If you can graduate early, and have the motivation to push yourself harder than the average joe, I think it's a great idea. </p>
<p>A lot of people are nearing burn-out mode by the time they start high school senior year or freshman year of college. That's why so many colleges suggest/even encourage people to consider taking a year off. To some overachievers, this break from the constant treadmill might seem like selling out or giving up, but a deferral can be a great way to actually enjoy life for a while and recover. This semester that you will have off can serve the same purpose. You can relax and recuperate before college starts.</p>
<p>But, of course, time off doesn't equal sitting on your ass all day watching tv. And it seems like you'll have plenty of things to keep busy with. That's what's important- finding something different and interesting that you might not get the chance to do otherwise. Travelling in a foreign country, extensive community service, learning another language...lots of exciting options. </p>
<p>The only thing that I'm not sure about is attending those college classes. From all the schools that I've researched, I know that they allow deferrals only if you don't matriculate at another college. In your case though, since you're not technically deferring or in college during your second semester, I'm not sure what the policy would be. You should call up your schools and ask how they handle the situation.</p>