goliad

I actually took two years off after graduating from my undergrad to go and teach English in Japan, so that's where I was when I was applying to all my programs. There were definitely a few disadvantages (especially when one of my LOR writers stopped answering my emails days before the deadline and I had to get my mom to call the department...), but all in all it was very doable. I was successful with most of my applications, and some of the advisors at universities I was admitted to specifically mentioned my time abroad when I spoke with them later. That said, living abroad is an incredible commitment--an amazing experience, but definitely not something to be taken lightly. I would definitely recommend it as a chance to broaden your worldview and grow as a person, but not as something to boost your application. From the sound of things, it seems like you'll have a strong application anyway.