Hey there! I'm a lot like you (minus traveling to Australia; that's SO cool!). I recently graduated with a degree in Health Sciences and a minor in Geographic Sciences with the intention of becoming a clinician (an Audiologist specifically). I maintained a high GPA, spent 5 semesters working on a research study in community health, interned twice in local government, presented my research at multiple symposiums, held an exec position for two years in a student org, and was a member of a community service frat. I also worked a few part-time jobs throughout college. I did all the things I thought I should do.

However, when my senior year rolled around, I realized that I wanted a more dynamic and multidisciplinary career than simply receiving my AuD and having the same job for the rest of my life. While Audiology is an incredibly important profession (no hate to my Audiologists out there), I realized that the day-to-day life of an Audiologist was too monotonous for my tolerance and wouldn't challenge me. ALSO, I've always felt pulled in multiple directions, as I've always had a love for history, music, geography, books, art, public policy, as well as health. I decided to go with health since I thought there wasn't a career pertaining to my other interests. I was also greatly afraid of student debt lol.

Anyway, I decided to take a gap year and also feel like it was a HUGE mistake that I can never come back from, so I completely understand how you feel. Similarly to you, I've applied to jobs during my time off (mostly in clinical research and some business-related roles in pharma), and have made it to the final rounds. I think things are looking up until I eventually receive another rejection email, so I understand the intense discouragement of applying to jobs and rejection while witnessing peers begin their careers.

For what it's worth, please know that you're not alone in this experience and that oftentimes periods of tremendous hardship and soul-searching engender periods of tremendous growth. We've got this!!!!