Meet Sarah, a 19-year-old arts student who initially enrolled at the University of Waterloo but found herself overwhelmed by the fast-paced academic environment. Passionate about writing and social justice, she decided to take a gap year to volunteer with local nonprofits and travel, allowing her to gain life experiences that would inspire her craft. Now, she’s actively engaging with the university community, encouraging other students to consider non-traditional paths if they need time to refocus and recharge.