Thinking About a Leave of Absence?
College is a time of immense growth and transition within the lives of students. Many changes can occur during the few short years you'll spend at the University of Oklahoma. It takes time to adjust to these new aspects of your life. It is very understandable to feel that you might need a break from it all. Please take time to consider the items listed below as you deteremine whether or not to take some time off from the University of Oklahoma.
GPS would love to meet with you one-to-one to discuss your concerns. We can help you create a plan to address them and also connect you with valuable campus resources to support your specific circumstances. For more information or to make an appointment, call us at (405) 325-8103 or email us at gps@ou.edu.
Have I shared my concerns with anyone?
Confide in someone on campus about what is going on in your life. Whether it is an academic advisor, faculty member, counselor, or campus mentor, don't try to navigate this decision alone. It is important to let your campus connections know that you are considering taking time off, as they are valuable resources in determining how that time off will affect the progress toward your degree.
Address the Heart of the Issue
Think about what has led you to desire a break. Is it something that will be resolved simply by taking some time off? Is it a situation that's worth putting your education on hold? The University of Oklahoma has many resources available to help students who may be experiencing difficulties during their time here. You can meet with GPS to discuss your situation and receive information about people and places on campus designed specifically to support you in your success. Call us at (405) 325-8103 or email us at gps@ou.edu to make an appointment. If taking some time off really is the best choice for you, we would love to help you navigate your return to the University of Oklahoma when the time is right.
Have I considered the cost?
Depending on the length of your break, it may have an impact on any loans or financial aid that you receive through the University of Oklahoma upon your return. It is important to contact the Student Financial Center to see how your absence would affect disbursement of financial aid, and also to free up the funds you would not be using during your time off for other students to use. You can call the Student Financial Center at (405) 325-9000 or visit them in person on the first floor of Buchanan Hall.
Make a plan to return with intention
If you decide to take time off, it is very important to look ahead to your return. Set a specific time for how long you will be gone, and plan accordingly to avoid staying away longer than intended. Talk to your academic advisor about what steps you will need to take to get enrolled for your returning semester. Remember that GPS is always available to help you navigate a return to campus, and most of all know that OU cannot wait to have you back!
This article was adapted with permission from The Secrets of College Success, Second Edition, by Lynn F. Jacobs and Jeremy S. Hyman, 2013.
