Benefits to taking time out that are student-driven:
- Recharge after academic "burn-out"
- Redirect focus for college
- Recharge after professional "burn-out" between jobs
- Re-evaluate different career options
- Step off the traditional path-whether it be academic or professional
- Jump start retirement
- Explore and delve into a hobby, passion, or special interest
- Reconnect with a passion for exploring and travel
- Take initiative and become an active, hands-on learner
- Volunteer by giving back to a community and making a difference
- Enjoy independence away from obligations or commitments
- Gain self-awareness
- Develop moral leadership and learn how to collaborate
- Step outside one’s comfort zone and develop resilience
- Gain empathy and global cultural sensitivity
- Immerse oneself in another culture
- Learn a new language
- Master practical life skills-budgeting, problem solving, communication, cooking
- Challenge oneself in an unfamiliar setting
- Make new friendships
