Taking a Break From College....

Recently, I've had several discussions with students wanting to take a break from college, planning to finish their degree later than the 4-year plan. I think it's okay to make such a choice. However, this topic needs to be discussed more and think  about thoroughly. 

I was one of those students that took a two year break and then went back to get my degree, but I know some friends who just lost the momentum and never finished to obtain their degree. There are many reasons why it may be best to take a break for a semester, or more. Everyone's plan is different and sometimes plans need to change. Here are three examples of when taking a break may be better than sticking with your original college plan:
1. Emotion, Mental and/or Physical Health - it's important to be honest with ourselves and focus on taking care of ourselves first.
2. Family and/or Financial difficulties - as these two often relate, as we have many priorities to balance.
3. Opportunity Costs - if we have other learning, job, or business opportunities, where our time and money can be best spent/allocated.

When I was a college student, after two years in, I couldn't be both a good student and a starting entrepreneur at the same time, so I had to make the decision to focus on one and deferred the other. I am so glad I did so, I got my business started and also got my degree, rather than being a dropout. I followed my plan and accomplished my goals. 

Before making such a decision to either take a college break or to drop out college completely, please do the following:
1. Clearly assess your current situation and your options
2. Have a plan for your break, or dropout, and thereafter - think of goals and plans
3. Share that plan with your trusted advisors and mentors who you know will provide great perspectives for you to consider

To keep perspective, there's no one size fit all college plan or is college for everyone. However, the idea of continuing learning and personal development is the key idea, as the ultimate goal is for you to pave your own success, for you, your family, community, etc. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to think and know what you want to do, with plans thought out, so you don't waste time.