When planning a study break, be sure that the course you are opting for is relevant for your career. Get details about the course and see how the benefits of your study will work to your advantage when you will get back.

Rushabh Shah, 27, Senior HR professional says, "I was working with an advertising agency for a couple of years. But I was unfulfilled. As creative as the job was, it was far from appealing. After a talk with my parents I figured that HR was my line. I checked out a few MBA colleges and went ahead with the one that best suited me. However I did have three options in case one didn't work. I also checked if the college had placements after the course."

It would be a good idea to talk to someone who has done the course you are planning to do. They will not only give you details that the prospectus leaves out, but they will also be able to tell you the advantages and disadvantages (if any) of the course.

If you are planning to change track after the course, find out if the college has placement facilities. When you narrow down a college you plan to attend, speak with the registration office and ask them about placement facilities. They will give you the options they have or put you onto someone from the college who will be able to help you with the information.

Shashi Iyer says, "In case you are planning to return to your old job after your studies, find out if your company is willing to pay at least part of your course fee as the additional knowledge will benefit the company. If your company does agree then it may ask you to sign a contract stating that you will work with them for an 'X' amount of time, since they have paid either full or part of your course fee."

"It is important to remember that this policy will vary for each company. So talk to the HR department and find out if they are willing to pay for your studies."

2. Marriage on Your Mind?

If you are taking a break because of your wedding, you need to be sure before your wedding how long a break you want. If it is six months or longer, then you must keep the HR department of your company in the know.

If you are comfortable with the company and wish to rejoin after a wedding break, then make sure that you discuss your options with the HR department.

In case you are moving to another city and your company has an office there, find out if they are willing to give you a transfer. Start arrangements for the transfer at least XXX months in advance to accommodate the application and other HR procedures.

If you are looking to change jobs after your marriage, you must be mentally prepared for a tough time finding a new one. Most companies are wary about hiring new brides because of the chance that you may get pregnant soon and then need your maternity leave.

You have to make your career plans very clear to your interviewer at any company you apply and be forthright if you are planning children.

If you are relocating to a new city and looking for a change of job, do thorough research in advance on the companies there and the prospects of getting a job in your field. Start the application procedure well before your wedding, so that you can plan the interviews during your wedding break and join work after your honeymoon.