Is taking a year/ semester off a smart decision?
Once you get to your last semester of your Undergraduate career, there is a lot to consider. For example, will you take a semester or a year off before going to grad school? Will you work on your clinical hours or possibly just work on being an SLPA? There are many questions that we have to think about as our time at college comes to an end. Personally, I would say that taking time off is a good decision but there are people who disagree. However, I'll tell you why I think it's a good idea. Once you graduate you get an overwhelming sense of emotions. There's happiness and relief because you graduated and are done with part of your career, but there is also worry and some more stress because you have to figure out what the next step in your life is. By taking time off you get to think about what opportunities are available and the choices you may have. If you have not yet completed your clinical hours, this is the perfect time to do it while working a side job. If you have already completed those hours then you can apply for you r certification (if you haven't already done so) and apply at a school, clinic, or even a hospital as an SLPA. I think it's good to have time to work as an SLPA before going to Graduate school because it gives you a feel for what you'll be doing, but it'll also help you make the decision of being an SLPA in your career or moving on to become a SLP. You can say you want one thing but then get the experience and change your mind and I think a break will definitely help you figure that out. All this goes to say that just because I think it's a good idea, you may not think the same so make sure you do what you feel and think is right.
If you still aren't completely sure, this article may help you.