Taking Time Off

It is common for many students to experience one or more slumps during their college years. While often referred to as the “sophomore slump”, a slump may occur at any time. It may arise when the student is far enough along academically that the newness and excitement of university life has worn thin but is too far removed from graduation to sense fulfillment. This is often a time of searching for one’s own place in the grand scheme of things: “Why am I here at college? What do I want to do with my life?” The student may sleep excessively, gain or lose weight, attend class erratically, watch grades drop, and be plagued by restlessness. Usually, a student rides it out with the sympathetic help of peers, friends, and family.

Some students entertain the notion of leaving school for awhile, to work or to travel. The concern most frequently voiced by parents is that their son or daughter might never complete college. This usually proves to be unfounded. Students who take time off from college typically report the experience to have been meaningful for them, returning with a fresh outlook and better motivation.

Should your student present this option, be prepared to recognize it as a valid possibility and not necessarily as a way to run from responsibilities. The psychologists at CAPS (as well as the deans of Richmond College and Westhampton College) frequently consult with students as they come to their decision on this question.

Next Section: Considering Transferring