Younger Applicant Seeking Advice - Grad School and/or Teaching Abroad?

Graduate School
1

<p>I am currently a senior in college and a literature and writing major, and I am trying to decide what to do after college. I have already decided to take a year off to pay back loans (and to get more life experience since I am a much younger applicant), but recently I did a study abroad tour in Asia, and I’m thinking I may want to take another year off and apply to a program that hires English teachers for year-long placement in Asian countries. I’ve always wanted to teach English in another country, and I have a feeling that the experience of living abroad for a year would be good for me. </p>

<p>What I’m wondering is, would a two year gap be a hindrance in any way for grad school applications? Would it look bad that I took so much time off? Can I get recommendations written now and sent later? </p>

<p>I have always been a good student, but I know there are no guarantees in regard to grad schools. I just want to be sure that I’m making the best choices to improve my odds of getting in and doing well. I’d appreciate any input. Thanks!</p>

2

<p>No. Grad schools don’t care about gaps, particularly ones that are well-used for research or personal development. In fact, having some “real-world” experience in one’s intended graduate field is generally a plus for an applicant.</p>