Thinking about taking a break from study?
There may be a number of reasons why you decide to take some time out from studying.
Not the right course
There are many different courses available and often it can be very hard to decide which one is best for you. If you’re not enjoying the course you’ve chosen to study, or it isn’t meeting your expectations, it may be that it’s not the right course for you.
Health/personal reasons
If you’ve been unwell or personal circumstances are affecting your studies, you may want to take some time out. This might be a better option than struggling on and not being able to give 100 percent.
Finances
Studying full time is a big financial commitment and with student loans and living costs it all mounts up. If financial problems are affecting your studies you may need to consider some options for putting yourself in a better financial situation.
In need of a change
Going straight from school into further study can be a strain. If you have been working hard for two or three years at secondary school, the thought of full-time study can be off-putting.
If you are finding it hard to get motivated, this will begin to affect your course work and may mean missed deadlines or failed assessments/examinations. Sometimes trying something different may be the answer – it’s a chance for you to build up new skills and do new things.
Most importantly it will allow you to see what else is out there. When you do decide to return to study you’ll feel refreshed, more certain and ready for the challenge.
Case study - Nick Arnst
Nick Arnst went to university to study engineering, but didn't enjoy it, and ended up failing half his courses. So he switched to psychology - but found that little better.
"I felt like I was at university just for the sake of it, that I was wasting money and wasting my life, so it was probably better that I take time out and figure out what I really wanted to do."
Taking some part-time jobs helped Nick decide on a new career direction.
Read more about how taking time out helped Nick realise what he really wanted to do
Resitting part of your course
If you haven’t achieved the necessary results, you may have to resubmit work or resit papers. It is important that you stay in close touch with your tutor or lecturer about your course options.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking a year off before study?
Getting some work experience
Taking some time out to work can often be a good option. It can allow you to see what the ‘real world’ is like and give you financial independence. It may also allow you to think more carefully about your career options.
You could also consider doing part-time work while you study. This can be a good way to get a foot in the door in the industry or job that you’re interested in. You can also get some practical experience – or at least earn some extra money!
Gap year and overseas travel
A year off or gap year is an increasingly popular choice for students leaving secondary school. Many want to take some time out from studying after more than a decade at school.
It’s also an opportunity to save up for tertiary study, experience different cultures and ways of working/living, or simply take some time to explore your options.
