You worked hard (and probably played hard) during your college career and now you're wondering how to add a little travel to the mix, right? Except, aren't you supposed to start applying for as many full-time jobs as possible?

Well, I'm here to tell you that traveling—if done intentionally—can not only help your career, but it can also make you a more well-rounded (and thus more hirable) human being.

What's so great about travel?

Growing up, we tend to think of ourselves as the center of something—perhaps the universe or simply the world—however, that could not be further from the truth. Travel to any place other than where you are familiar can open your eyes to that fact on many levels.

Not only does travel allow for new-to-you experiences, but it allows you to see how others make their way in the world. You've spent a handful of very focused years plugging away at your goals, but I urge you to venture out and ask others what they've been working toward.

Will hiring managers look kindly on a travel gap in my resume?

While this depends on your field of study and the industry you're looking to enter, very few hiring managers will begrudge you a period of travel after college.

In my experience, as long as travel is done with learning, growth and experience in mind, it's tough to go wrong. It pays to have a worldly outlook in regards to problem solving, politics, job growth and—let's face it—life!

Listen in as Alexis advises a recent graduate on the realities of taking a break to travel:

What if I can't afford to travel?

It's true that travel can be cost-prohibitive. While you certainly don't want to go into debt for the sake of traveling, there are ways around this issue:

• Think about traveling closer to home. Yes, that grand European adventure sounds amazing, but if it's not in the cards don't fret. Perhaps finding adventure closer to home is the way to go. Trust me when I tell you that by traveling the U.S., you'll still learn more about the world (and yourself) than you would have sitting on the couch.
• Travel smart. Whether you opt for an overseas jaunt or a cross-country road trip, there are plenty of ways to keep travel costs down. Stay with friends or hit up inexpensive Airbnb locations; head to the grocery store and make some meals rather than sitting down at restaurants every step of the way; or travel with a group in an effort to share costs. However you can make a trip work financially—do it.
• Crowdfund your trip. Much like our friend Bethany is crowdfunding her post-graduate program in New York this summer, you too can build a campaign to ask for financial support. If you're looking for tips on crowdfunding a trip, start here.

Should I consider slow travel rather than setting up a home base right now?

In a word: sure! Slow travel is one of the most worthwhile and intentional travel options out there. If you're unfamiliar, slow travel consists of setting up a temporary home base, getting a job and creating a community—wherever you decide to go.

Slow travel gives you the opportunity to become entrenched in local culture, customs and traditions. You'll meet more people, find work and you'll have a chance to learn from others in a way you wouldn't if you were, say, running from one "must see" landmark to the next.

If you're new to the concept of slow travel, visit the blog, C'est Christine. Christine has been setting up home bases across the globe since 2010 and shares incredibly valuable tips for making the most of the lifestyle.

Is it worthwhile to search for work outside of the country?

Absolutely! Though I've never worked outside of the U.S., I know plenty of people who have and they don't regret it one bit. You'll need to do quite a bit of research on work visas and which companies or volunteer agencies might be hiring, but it's definitely worth the added effort if working and living abroad appeals to you. Starting here is your best bet.

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