Gap Year

Taking an intentional year after graduation to gain skills, try new things, experience travel and serve others is a great way to learn about industries, prepare for further education or experience new places and spaces. Some students choose to do this through established service programs, while others create their own. No matter your path or calling, Career Development and Vocation are here to walk you through the decision process and planning next steps.  Schedule an appointment today with handshake.

Gap Year Frequently Asked Questions

A gap year is often taken the year before or after college. This year can serve as a way for students to save extra money, travel, take additional classes, or participate in a service opportunity.

“What can I do during a gap year?”
Anything. There are so many options out there, it just depends on what experience you are looking to gain.

“I think I want to go to graduate school eventually…”
Great! This gap year could be the time that allows you to think about and reflect on what you want from graduate school. You could also take this time to catch up on additional resources.

“What if I want to do something with service or volunteering?”
A gap year is a great time to be involved in a service program, and there are many to choose from. From PeaceCorps to Americorp and beyond, a career coach can help you decide what is the best option for you.

“I’m actually looking to get out and travel during this time”
How exciting! There are many programs that allow you to travel alone or with a cohort. These programs typically have a learning or service component with traveling and exploring being the main focus.

Impact of Service Years

Service years transform lives, strengthen communities, and fuel civic renewal.

from https://www.serviceyearalliance.org/impact_of_service_years

Service Years Transform Lives

Service years create pathways to opportunity for young people and allow them to develop real-world experience as well as valued professional and leadership skills.

By Keri Bass
Keri Bass Assistant Director of Vocational Exploration and Career Coach
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Things to Prepare for a Career Fair

As you prepare to look for jobs at Augustana’s career fairs there are a couple things you should do in advance.

Schedule an appointment with your Career Coach using Handshake!
Research Companies in Advance

There are a variety of factors …

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Lisa Slater Marketing & Events Coordinator
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How traveling abroad after college can help you land your first job [infographic]

 

Are you thinking about traveling abroad after college, but you worry about entering the working world one year later? Don’t worry! In fact, traveling the world will help you acquire some very necessary skills to get your first job. While …

By College Recruiter
College Recruiter believes that every student and recent grad deserves a great career.
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Viking Score

The Viking Score is Augustana College’s career-readiness program to support students through college and post-graduate life by tracking experiences and awarding points to earn incentives along the way. The Viking Score motivates students to take small steps ensuring they are …

By Laura Kestner-Ricketts
Laura Kestner-Ricketts Executive Director, Career and Professional Development
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How To Talk About Your Non-Traditional Career Goals

If there’s one thing we have all learned through the last couple of years, it’s that future of work is changing (and more rapidly than ever). Whether you are job hunting, freelancing, starting your own nonprofit, or happily employed at …

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Career Resources

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Contact & Location

Phone
309-794-7339
Address

Olin Center
639 38th Street
Rock Island, IL 61201

Career Service Hours

Day of the week
Office is Open Drop-Ins
Monday 8:00 am- 4:30 pm 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Tuesday 8:00 am- 4:30 pm 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Wednesday 8:00 am- 4:30 pm 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Thursday 8:00 am- 4:30 pm 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Friday 8:00 am- 4:30 pm 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

Drop-in topics include:

  • Resume & Cover Letter Review
  • Resume & Cover Letter Writing
  • Viking Score Overview
  • LinkedIn Headshot Photo
  • Career Resources Overview