Among the many benefits at Blue Shield of California, our Sabbatical Program is one of the most popular. Employees who work at least 20 hours per week are eligible for a four-week, paid sabbatical after every five years of continuous service. This benefit is designed to serve as an opportunity for personal and professional development, or simply a time to relax and recharge. Read on to learn how two of our colleagues spent their sabbaticals. We know you’ll come away inspired!
Reconnections and love in South America
After six years at Blue Shield of California, Chebu Herrick spent his sabbatical traveling throughout South America connecting with his family roots and taking in majestic sights.
“I was born in Paraguay, with roots tied to the Aché Guayakí, an indigenous people of Paraguay. My community grows and harvests yerba mate for the Yerba Madre company, formerly known as Guayakí Yerba Mate. Accompanied by my sister and nephew, I spent a week and a half visiting family. We participated in the annual cultural week, celebrating our traditions and honoring our heritage.”
“My partner met up with me in Paraguay, and together we visited Brazil. We saw the Iguazu Falls—one of the largest waterfall systems in the world. We viewed the falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides. It was spectacular! We even rode a boat into the falls.”
“The final leg of my trip was spent in Argentina, where I attended school from second to sixth grade (1976 to 1981). My partner and I visited my old school and saw the house where I grew up. On our last day in Argentina, I proposed to my long-time partner of twenty years. She was totally surprised--and said ‘yes!’”
Chebu’s advice on sabbaticals: “Even if you’re staying home, plan something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the chance. Go somewhere you’ve never been—even if it’s just in your hometown. Visit your happy places, whether it’s the beach, the mountains, or the lake. The time flies by, and before you know it, you’ll be back at work. For me, it was a wonderful opportunity to recharge.”
Chebu married his partner in April this year!
Finding healing and reflection through travel, art and culture
Jonna Constantine has been with Blue Shield for almost eight years and still remembers her sabbatical fondly. “The cultural experiences I gained during my travels are treasured memories. Being given the time to frolic in the sun — and rain — on what would normally be a workday made me feel valued as an employee. We are lucky to have an employer that prioritizes work-life balance.”
Jonna took her sabbatical in the spring to take advantage of favorable weather and lighter crowds. It was also an especially meaningful time as she had just lost a beloved parent, and needed space to reflect, regain her footing, and recharge her spirit. She started her journey in London, taking in art exhibitions at the Tate Modern and wandering through gardens in full spring bloom, just ahead of King Charles’ coronation. From there, Jonna headed to Puglia, Italy: “I explored small towns with beautiful views, tasted regional delicacies, and deepened my connection to my heritage. It was a joy to immerse myself in the local way of life.” Her next stop was Barcelona, where she met with a friend to experience Catalan music, cuisine, and culture, “We strolled through Gaudi’s masterpieces—Park Guell and Sagrada Familia—and sipped on Vichy (a Spanish carbonated mineral water) and vermouth.”
Jonna wrapped up her travels with a stop in Paris, where she joined a tour to see the city through its artistic citizens— from cake makers and perfumeries to jewelers and illustrators. Jonna recalls, “I fulfilled my dream of shopping the legendary Paris antique markets, Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, enjoyed picnic meals, sat at cafes, and tried a variety of cuisines that make Paris a melting pot.” She stopped in New York City to take in a few shows and The Met’s annual fashion exhibit before heading home to California.
Jonna’s advice on sabbaticals: “There will never be a ‘good time’ to take your sabbatical. I was so worried about leaving my team to pick up my work, but I did my best to set them up for success—and bring them back presents from my travels to show my gratitude!”
If you believe in the value of work-life balance and would like to be part of a team that recognizes the importance of staying balanced, happy and healthy, take a moment to explore our open career opportunities and apply for your next role!
