Alternatives to "9 to 5" Traditional “real” jobs, graduate school or professional school, and research projects through grants or fellowships are not the only options a senior has after graduation.  Many graduates decide to “take some time off”, or to try something different, before they hunker down to the more traditional paths of full-time permanent jobs or graduate school. From the CRC’s perspective, this is a perfectly acceptable decision for your first step out of college.  Alternative activities after graduation, such as volunteering, traveling, or starting your own enterprise, can be an excellent way to explore the world, gain perspective on your professional direction, or simply to just “clear your head” and enjoy your life before a more intensive commitment to a demanding job or graduate/professional school program.  These activities can be either domestic or international; there are no rules to follow other than the ones you make yourself. The CRC’s advising staff would be happy to discuss an alternative plan you may have, or to help you devise one!  Just make an appointment to get started. Here are some resources that might jump start your thinking: Delaying the Real World – Major site listing other online resources.  See the Resources section. Transitions Abroad – Advice and resources for going abroad. WWOOF – Domestic and international opportunities for work on organic farms.