Contemplating whether or not to take a gap year can be an extremely stressful and scary decision. However, many scientists have chosen to take a gap year at various times in their career, such as before graduate school, after completing a master’s degree, and even after receiving a PhD. Gap years can provide an opportunity to explore other career interests, gain work experience, develop professional skills, adequately prepare for starting graduate school and/or a career within academia, and deciding the next steps in your career.

Come hear from our panel, which will include 1) current graduate students who took a gap year before starting a master’s or PhD program and 2) graduate school admissions counselors, as they discuss the pros and cons, and do’s and don’ts of taking a gap year. The panelists will discuss how to structure your gap year to make it both relaxing and productive, and how to legitimize a gap year to potential employers and/or graduate advisors.