Making the Most of a Gap Year: A Future Nurse’s Perspective by Roberto

Making the Most of a Gap Year: A Future Nurse’s Perspective by Roberto - August 2019 Scholarship Essay

Some people may consider a gap year during studies to be a set-back; however, it can be a valuable time-frame if the time is spent wisely. Each person’s path will look different. Obtaining a degree comes with a lot of planning, effort, and dedication, but unexpected challenges can occur along the way and change the plan. I plan to apply to the nursing program at my institution after obtaining my first associate degree. I am hopeful that I’ve planned well enough to make a seamless transition into the program; however, I know that if I must wait a gap year, I can take advantage of that time to develop and prepare. A gap year can be beneficial in the road to accomplishing academic goals, reaching career readiness, and self-development.

The first thing that should be considered to make the most of a a gap year is making sure that academic requirements are met. If there are any courses that must be taken before entering the desired program, this time can be used to enroll for that class and meet all prerequisites. Being academically prepared is a major aspect of obtaining a degree in the preferred field of study. A resource that can I would contact during a gap year is an academic adviser who can help ensure I’m on track with degree requirements and applications. In addition to taking the required classes and applying for the program by the deadline, some programs may require entrance exams. For example, I would use this time to study and prepare to take the TEAS, which is an exam that I must pass to be admitted into the nursing program and continue my studies. In order to prepare for the exam, I can study individually by purchasing review materials, dedicating time to study, and completing practice tests. Also, I can attend reviews where tutors can assist me in preparing for the subjects of the exam and clarifying any questions I may have along the way. In addition to academic preparedness, a gap year can be a good time to become exposed to the field of study and gain career experience.

A gap year can also be a valuable time to prepare for one’s future career through professional development opportunities. For example, to prepare for the nursing profession, I would take the time to reach out to people in the healthcare field to request to shadow their work and volunteer. Another option is to apply for jobs within a hospital that allow to gain experience in the field and build up my resume with work experience that can complement my education. These opportunities are helpful because they allow the development of technical skills, acquiring field-related knowledge, and making connections with professionals in the healthcare setting. In addition to observing and working in a hospital, I would use the time in a gap year to get relevant certifications such as a CPR and first aid training. I can also study to become a Certified Nurse Assistant which can be completed in only two months and would give me the preparation in skills and terminology to enter the nursing field and increase my employment opportunities. The time in a gap year can be invested preparing academically and professionally, but it should also include opportunities for self-care.

A gap year should also be a time to take care of oneself and learn to practice healthy habits. Obtaining a degree takes years, and during those years of studying and the gap year, it’s possible to develop stress, lose sleep, and eat unhealthy foods. It’s a good strategy to take advantage of the academic and professional opportunities that are possible to explore during a gap year; however, there must be a balance by incorporating practices for self-care. For example, if I choose to take a required or additional course before entering the nursing program, and I begin to prepare and study for the entrance exam, I would also schedule time off from studying. It’s important to not become overwhelmed with stress while trying to accomplish these academic tasks. Another good practice would be for me to prepare a flexible schedule if I begin to work by leaving time for studying and rest. Lastly, I would make time for the hobbies that I enjoy like watching TV shows and playing video games to have some fun during the demanding year, and I would connect with family and friends to balance the responsibilities that will take up most of the gap year.

A gap year, when planned properly, is a process of growth and development to prepare for the next step in a person’s academic and professional career. During this time, people can gain knowledge about their field of study and experience in the professional environment. Additionally, making time for self-care is essential to complete the year successfully with gains. Although a gap year presents additional academic and career readiness opportunities, it’s important to make smart and healthy choices along the way to have a balanced lifestyle. It takes is structure, patience, responsibility, and determination to make the most of a gap year.