taking a year off and going overseas

[lnh]

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I'm an undergrad junior right now, and I'm thinking about taking a year off after I graduate to go overseas and teach English (the program I want to teach for requires that I have an undergrad degree). This is just a random cool thing I've wanted to do for a long time, and I know there is no other time I will want to do this. I would be applying for the 2010 cycle if I do go through with it.

My concerns were:
1) When should I take my OATs
2) Not having the science material fresh on my mind when I enter
3) Applying/scheduling interviews while overseas
4) Paying off my undergrad loans since I will no longer be a full-time student >.<
5) Is there something else I should be concerned about?

I'm only 20 right now, and I'm on time with my graduation/pre-req schedule, so I'm not concerned about losing time/being too old. My GPA is also pretty decent. Should I just go for it? Or are there too many complications? Has anyone here done something similiar? I know many people take some time off to gain experience, and that I can understand. What I'll be doing is completely unreated though. Perhaps I can win some "well-roundedness" points? Any advice or opinions will be greatly appreciated!

 

[Oogilily]

I think that would be a great experience. You are really young still and I think you should take advantage of that. Some schools will only accept OATs from 2 years prior to applying, so be careful with that. And it does help to have the science courses fresh on your mind, especially for the OAT, but I guess it is doable depending on how you are. I don't think it would really hurt your chances getting in though. But I could be wrong.

 

[blueeyedOD]

If you're only going to be overseas for a year, then take your OATs while you're a senior and the science is still fresh in your mind. I think living outside of the US is an awesome experience and is definitely, definitely worth it. I was planning on going straight into grad school after undergrad, but my husband got offered a position where we would get to live in Europe for a few years. I'll be going to optometry school next year when we move back. I have had absolutely no regrets and have enjoyed living here immensely. For me, it was much harder to study/take the OATs (had to fly to the States) and to interview (had to fly back again). But it was so very worth it.