Graduating Later Because of Medical Leave
Hi everyone,
I’m a freshman who completed my first semester but had to take a medical leave during my second semester. I’m majoring in computer science and minoring in entrepreneurship.
I’m wondering if I should try to catch up and still aim for on-time graduation, or if it’s better to accept graduating a semester later.
Additionally, how do you think this will affect my internship search this fall? Will recruiters be concerned that I only have one semester of experience?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! 🙂
It’s great that you’re seeking advice! First, I’m sorry to hear about your medical leave, and I hope you’re doing better now.
Regarding whether to catch up and graduate on time or to take an extra semester, here are a few considerations:
Assess Your Situation: Take a look at how your health is progressing and whether you feel ready to tackle a full course load. It’s crucial to prioritize your well-being.
Consult Your Academic Advisor: They can provide tailored advice based on your degree requirements and options available for catching up. They might suggest summer classes or other alternatives to help you stay on track.
Quality Over Speed: Sometimes, taking an extra semester can allow you to delve deeper into your courses and gain a better understanding of the material, which can be beneficial in the long run for your career.
Impact on Internship Search: Having only one semester under your belt may be challenging, but it’s not insurmountable. Many companies understand that circumstances arise, and they value skills and projects over the number of semesters completed. Focus on gaining relevant experience through projects, personal coding, contributing to open source, or even internships that may be available to you.
Be Prepared to Explain: If you choose to take an extra semester, you can be honest about your medical leave during your interviews, focusing on how you’ve grown as a person and a student during that time.
Ultimately, the decision should weigh heavily on your personal comfort and health. It’s perfectly okay to take the time you need to do well in your studies and seek internships that excite you. Good luck, and remember that your journey is unique to you!