I actually handle hiring for my workplace (we employ ~700) and wouldn't care at all about a 6 week gap. If anything, it's an interesting discussion in an otherwise dull interview. I would only have an issue with it if you're repeatedly quitting a job to do this. I say go for it!

When I finished college I had no job lined up. I spent three months traveling around Europe and wouldn't trade that experience for anything. When I got home I signed up to be a substitute teacher until I could find a full time job.
I am so glad I didn't wait to take that trip. I know I couldn't travel the same way now that I traveled then.
You are not in your dream job so quitting should not be something that will ruin your life. I agree about signing up with a temp agency when you return if you can't find a permanent job. It's easier to do these things when you are young so go for it!
Enjoy your youth and experience as much as you can!

I know I've already voted here but go... go... GO!

Do it! Quit your job and, when you return to the US, move somewhere you think you'd like to live and start looking for a job. You're young enough to be able to get something.

As I look back over my life, my chief regrets are things I didn't do. One of them was travelling to Europe when I was your age.

Sounds like me back in the '70's. Took two months to travel with a eurail pass! (using overnight trains, hostels and friendly natives to save on my meager finances)

The next time this opportunity comes your way will be in retirement!

GO FOR IT!!!!!

It sounds like you have already made your mind up anyway.

Take each day as it comes, you never know, you may end up in Europe working for a backpackers. Don't plan EVERYTHING, leave yourself room for spontaneity. I have many friends that have gone overseas and ended up somewhere completely different in their lives from what they originally planned.

Life is all about experiences, just focus on planning your trip and living life.

enjoy it!

Thanks for the encouragement everyone!

Do it! There will always be work- but the freedom from obligations will not always be there.
However, if I were you I look into getting a TEAFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and doing this abroad. You don't necessarily need to know another language to do this and it is a good way to make money. Granted, you would need to this in a 3rd world country to make money ( or one of the wealthy ME countries), but it could be a fun way to experience the world.

Too bad your parents aren’t in favour of your plan. I think that is all the more reason you should do it. Not to be defiant, but to prove to yourself and them that you are a capable, independent adult, able to make your own choices and live with the consequences (which will almost certainly be more positive than negative).

As far as work is concerned, it can’t hurt to arrange an interview or two with temp agencies and explain what you want to do. They will probably be reassuring about the job market for temps, and let you know what skills are most likely to be in demand. You may even be able to take a course to upgrade your skills before you leave so you’ll be ready to advance your career on your return.

I agree that you shouldn’t give more than two weeks notice, or approach your boss for a leave, given your understanding of the workplace. Being a ‘lame duck’ as you finish out your weeks or months of work is a very uncomfortable position. Also, there is always a chance your plans may change due to unforeseen circumstances and then you will be in a real bind, having quit a job you need to keep. It will be hard to keep your excitement and plans from your co-workers, though.


Good luck and let us know what you decide.

Have fun !