Taking a Year Off University: Is It Wise?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations and implications of taking a year off from university during undergraduate studies. Participants explore the potential impacts on academic focus, skills retention, and alternative options such as studying abroad or adjusting course loads.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about burnout from a heavy course load in Mathematics, Computer Science, Philosophy, and Logic & Computation, questioning the wisdom of taking a year off.
  • Another participant suggests that taking a year off might disrupt academic momentum, making it difficult to return to studies.
  • A different viewpoint proposes considering a semester abroad as an alternative to taking a full year off, which might provide a refreshing change without a long break.
  • The original poster mentions plans to study abroad at UC Berkeley and to take additional classes in Philosophy and languages as a way to refresh their studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of concerns and suggestions regarding taking time off, with no clear consensus on whether it is wise or beneficial. Some advocate for alternatives to a full year off, while others emphasize the risks of losing academic momentum.

Contextual Notes

Participants' views depend on personal experiences and assumptions about academic performance and the effects of breaks on learning. The discussion does not resolve the potential consequences of taking time off versus alternative strategies.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a break from their studies, those experiencing burnout, and individuals interested in study abroad opportunities may find this discussion relevant.

gazzo
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Hey all,

I was wondering if it's wise to take a year off from University during undergraduacy (is that even a word?). I'm a freshman studying Mathematics, ComputerScience, Philosophy, Logic & Computation; and am finding it really hard to focus and stay concentrated. I've been thinking of taking a year off to go across Asia or something either in 2006 or 2007. I've done far too many maths papers this semester and have probably burnt out.

I'm scared of loosing all my skills from first/second year, is this likely?

Thanks.
 
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When contemplating on whether or not to take a year off from school, I like to think of myself as a product of momentum. For one, I know that if I stop school, it will be hard to get back into it. It does sound like you are burning out, but who wouldn't after a course load like yours. Perhaps you should take a load that you can handle better.
 
Maybe try taking a semester to study abroad? Try taking classes that are out of your major area to get a bit of refreshment.
 
Thanks for your replies, I'm trying to get into UC Berkeley to do ComputerScience for a semester or two in 06/07 possibly, and have started attending more Philosophy/Metaphysics classes to get some refreshment, and am thinking of taking up Italian or French next year. Study abroad is a really good idea though.

Cheers
 

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