I, too, am in the process of applying to grad schools... seeing how stressed I've become, my professors and advisor have recommended me taking a semester or year off before tackling grad school. I said that wasn't an option; I wanted to go in the fall, immediately after I graduate. But I also don't feel confident that I'll get into my dream school either. So my professor told me today that there's nothing wrong with taking a semester or year off to increase your skills and resume and then apply to grad school later. You could also make time to study for the GRE some more. please don't lose hope.