Spring Start at NYU: Making the Most of Your Gap Semester

As I arrived in New York in the spring, I realized that many of my classmates had done completely different things than I did. Some had traveled, and others spent time in New York. As I kept getting to know my peers, I realized there was no “right” way to spend this time. Everybody had made choices that fit them, which was the beauty of the gap semester.

With time on my side, I used the fall to fully plan out how I wanted to get through my four years. After speaking with my advisor, I enrolled in two classes at my local community college in the fall. This would help me have a more balanced courseload at NYU.

I still had lots of time to myself, and I had never worked a job in my life at that point. So, I got a job working at one of my favorite ice cream shops. I looked forward to opening the shop and talking with regulars. Looking back, this was an extremely fulfilling and formative experience. Making friends in New York would have been a lot harder for me if I didn’t work at that ice cream shop!

In my free time, I spent lots of time at the library and at home exploring my interests. I watched YouTube videos and online classes on graphic design. This helped me make up my mind when I transferred to my current major, Integrated Design & Media.

This was the first time in my life where I wasn’t in school, which was a bit puzzling at times. Handling unstructured time was hard, and I did feel bored and stressed at times.

However, I eventually learned how to work with these emotions. I was on my own path and maturing into my own person after high school, learning what made me happy. That included finding spaces where I could take my mind off class, which included the gym and baseball games. These became extremely important skills for when I moved to New York. When I arrived in the spring, I felt ready to adapt and organize myself.

The gap semester is a great time to ask big questions. “What do I like doing?”  “What environments do I see myself thriving in?”  “What gives me purpose?” In a low-stakes environment like a gap semester, you’re given time and space to answer these questions.

While I’m sure I would’ve had a fantastic time beginning in the fall, my journey at NYU has only been improved by my gap semester. Spring starts, make sure you enjoy and use this time. If you stay true to yourself, it will be time well spent.