Time off from college can be right choice
For many college students, the path to graduation is not always a straight line. While some move seamlessly from semester to semester, others choose to step away from school to reassess their goals, finances or personal circumstances.
Taking time off can be a difficult decision, but for many students, it becomes an important part of their academic journey. Students take time off from school for several reasons, including financial stress, uncertainty about their major or the need for a mental break.
Haley Ryder, Port Neches junior, said her decision to take time off was driven by uncertainty about her future.
“I didn’t know which direction I wanted to go in with my major, so I thought it would be best to take time off rather than waste money,” Ryder said.
For some students, the decision to take time off comes before college begins. David Vaquera, Groves junior, said he needed time to reset before jumping into something new.
“I took time off between high school and college because I needed a break to feel more confident before starting a new chapter in my life,” he said. “When I came back, I knew more about what I wanted to do and I was ready to commit and give it my full effort.”
Returning to school after a period of time away can present challenges, particularly when it comes to navigating financial aid, Shale Cochran said.
“I did try to go back and dropped again due to issues with my FAFSA and not having anyone to help through this process,” Cochran said.
Students can be discouraged by a lack of guidance and support which often makes the process feel overwhelming.
“I did not have anyone at home who knew how to help me through the process of everything,” she said. “I reached out to a few people in the scholarship department at Lamar, and they were able to help me, but I chose not to go back to school because that ended up being the best option for me.”
Students who go back to college after time away often gain a new perspective. Ryder said returning to school was difficult at times, especially when she compared herself to peers.
“I don’t really like being behind my friends who have already graduated, but everyone will finish when they finish, and that is OK,” Ryder said.
Vaquera said he encourages others to trust their instincts and prioritize their well-being. He emphasized the importance of listening to one’s self.
“Do it,” he said. “If you feel like you need a break, then do it. There is nothing wrong with needing time to yourself before throwing yourself into something new. It will definitely help you in the long run.”
Ryder said she wanted to find what she was passionate about.
“After trying out different things, I found a passion for teaching,” she said. “I chose to return to Lamar because they offer a great education program for me to do that.”
Cochran said taking time off allowed her to pursue her career goals outside of a traditional college setting.
“I have a full-time job at a daycare that will set me up for what I want my future job to be, and I have never been happier,” she said. “I don’t regret stepping away from school at all, if you are unsure about your end goal, my advice is to trust yourself and do what you believe is best for your future.
While there is societal expectation to going straight through a degree plan, stepping away can be a meaningful part of the college journey. With time, support, and self-reflection, many students return more prepared to continue their education and move forward with confidence.
Resources are available to help navigate the process of taking time away or looking to return.
Financial aid resources ca be found at lamar.edu/financialaid. For registration, visit lamar.edu/students/registrar/registration.