Begin planning for grad school applications now. These sample timelines show that early preparation is key.

Sample Timeline with No Gap Year

Start graduate school immediately following graduation.

• Pros: 
  Continue with momentum
  Finish school sooner
  Harness current contacts/ and opportunities
  Don't need to find work before grad school
• Cons:
  Senior year is hectic with grad preparation
  Less time for hands-on experience
  
   

Sample Timeline with a Gap Year

A constructive, 9–12 month break after graduation and before attending graduate school. Plan your gap year, so it does not become, 2 years or 3 years.

• Pros: 
  Spread out your grad school prep
  More time for hands-on experience
  More time to explore careers and grad programs
• Cons:
  Delays your end goal
  UCD resources become less available
  Need to find work opportunities right away
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