Graduating Later Because of Medical Leave
Hi everyone,
I’m a freshman who completed one semester before needing to take a medical leave for my second semester. I’m majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Entrepreneurship.
I’m seeking advice on whether I should try to catch up and still graduate on schedule or if I should accept graduating a semester late.
Additionally, I’m curious about how this might affect my internship search this fall. Will employers be concerned that I only have one semester of coursework completed?
Thank you for any insights you can offer! 🙂
First of all, I’m sorry to hear about your medical leave, but it’s great that you’re looking ahead to your next steps. Here are some points to consider as you weigh your options about graduating on time vs. taking an extra semester:
Catch Up vs. Slow Down: If you feel that you can manage your coursework and the potential stress of catching up, check your school’s policies on taking summer classes or additional credits during the semester. However, don’t compromise your health or well-being to meet a timeline. Sometimes, taking an extra semester allows you to deepen your understanding of your subjects and can actually make you more competitive in the long run.
Internship Search: Many companies understand that students can face challenges, including medical leaves. Having only one semester of experience may raise questions, but you can focus on showcasing any relevant skills or projects you’ve worked on during that time. Additionally, consider getting involved in extracurricular projects, hackathons, or internships even if they’re less formal; this can help fill out your resume and demonstrate your initiative.
Networking: Start building your network now. Attend career fairs, connect with peers, and reach out to professors or advisors for guidance. These connections can help you find opportunities that might not come through traditional channels.
Focus on Skills: Regardless of the path you choose, prioritize developing your skills in areas that are in demand in the CS field and entrepreneurship. Online courses, personal projects, or contributing to open-source projects can help bolster your resume.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your health, well-being, and what you feel is the best path for your future. Remember, it’s okay to take a little longer to reach your goals—what matters most is that you’re learning and growing along the way. Good luck!