Jazmyn Hernandez, a recent gap semester student, shares her transformative experience. Her story sheds light on the profound benefits of taking time off from school to focus on personal well-being and self-discovery.

“What motivated me to take a gap semester was mainly wanting to take time for myself,” Hernandez explains. She reflects on the relentless cycle of schooling from a young age, which can be both time-consuming and draining. Feeling unsure, lost, and tired, Hernandez decided to use her gap semester as an opportunity to reconnect with herself, explore her interests, and improve her overall well-being.

During her time off, Hernandez focused on her physical and mental health. “The most significant benefit I experienced was the improvement in my mental health,” she says. The break from the constant demands of school allowed her to gain mental clarity and explore different interests. “Classes, homework, and exams become a lot, especially when you’re at the ripe age of figuring out who you are as an individual, and on top of working a job,” she adds.

Hernandez found that taking a gap semester allowed her to reset in multiple ways. “I didn’t experience any alarming challenges taking a gap semester,” she notes. While getting back into the routine of school was initially difficult, she quickly adapted after the first week.

Hernandez strongly recommends taking a gap semester to other students. Especially to those struggling with motivation, mental health issues, or feeling overwhelmed. “I advise students to  use this time to better themselves,” she says. Her advice includes trying new things, prioritizing health, spending time with loved ones, and making new experiences. “I believe making new experiences and venturing out during this time is extremely valuable while taking a gap semester,” she concludes. By taking time to focus on personal well-being and self-discovery, students can return to their academic pursuits with renewed clarity and motivation.