You’ve graduated high school, now what’s next? A lot of people may be moving on to college, but jumping into a thousand-dollar commitment (as in student loans) while you’re still unsure may not be the best idea.
With internships, volunteering, and similar activities within the US and abroad that come with a structure and facilitators, gap year programs can be the perfect solution to your dilemma. ✨
- 1. It Gives You A Chance to Breathe 💯
- 2. It Lets You Gain Focused Work Experience 🧑💻
- 3. It Guides You to Discover and Pursue Your Passions 🎨
- 4. It Helps You Build Independence and Confidence 🧗♀️
- 5. It Can Boost Your College Application 🎓
- 6. It Develops Lifelong Skills 🛠️
- 7. It Makes You Experience the World 🌍
- Gap Year Programs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. It Gives You A Chance to Breathe 💯
Gap-year programs put a pin on academic burnout because days are filled with developmental experiences at the hands of mentors instead of intense and rigid structures. EF Gap Year and Outward Bound are companies that offer programs combining travel, learning, and personal growth. Compared to leaving the rest of your year to chance, you’ll have people to keep you on track and accountable. ✅
Good to know: Don’t rush into college just because you’re worried about rising costs, even if you’re still clueless about your major and career. A year off can still be productive as long as it helps you explore your interests which will point you to a fulfilling path and long-term success. Besides, there are plenty of financial aid and scholarship options available once you’re ready to pursue higher education. 🏫
2. It Lets You Gain Focused Work Experience 🧑💻
Did high school leave you with little time to work part-time jobs? Gap-year programs often partner with big companies or local businesses to provide internships or work placements that align with your interests and shape your work ethic.
This also gets you started in building a solid resume. VACorps offers internships in Cape Town where participants can develop a global mindset, but you can also consider AmeriCorps for opportunities to work in areas like disaster services and education in the US. 👍
TIP: Look for gap year programs that offer financial aid or scholarships to help offset costs.
READ MORE: These Colleges Have the Best Internship Programs (Seriously!)
3. It Guides You to Discover and Pursue Your Passions 🎨
Choosing a college major you’re not interested in can backfire if you don’t find it fulfilling enough to complete. However, that problem can be solved after you focus on knowing and growing your skills, character, and experience to bring clarity to your path.
Find yourself as a silversmithing apprentice in Indonesia, learn Mandarin Chinese, or immerse in various cultures through gap-year programs like Where There Be Dragons or GoAbroad. These unique experiences can make for cool icebreakers and help you attend college with a strong purpose. 💭
4. It Helps You Build Independence and Confidence 🧗♀️
A gap year can be your warm-up toward college independence. You’ll be living away from home, navigating new environments, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds, especially through the High Desert Center program.
Successfully handling culture shock or homesickness and being guided by the program mentors, leaders, or peers can build the confidence you need to face the challenges of college or whatever comes next, much like the 95 percent of students who did a gap year. 💪
TIP: Choose a program with a solid support network and regular check-ins to help ease the transition into independent living. Look at news articles and online reviews for clues.
5. It Can Boost Your College Application 🎓
Contrary to some beliefs, taking a break before college can make your application stand out. Even prestigious institutions like Harvard University encourage admitted students to take a meaningful one-year break, giving you all the more reason to do it.
Research your target college’s views on gap years. Admissions officers are likely to view a productive gap year as a sign of maturity, commitment, and initiative. Look for accredited programs or ones they’ve partnered with, as they can give you experiences that make for compelling application stories. 😄
6. It Develops Lifelong Skills 🛠️
You’ll need more than just good grades to survive college and beyond. A combination of essential life skills, like cooking healthy meals, time management, and negotiation, are necessary to go far and live with ease.
With that, look for a program providing you with the skills you’re eyeing. The Center for Interim Programs can connect you with cooking courses in Europe, while International Volunteer HQ helps aspiring volunteers in places like Ghana. In addition, their varied activities can hone soft skills that are useful for landing your dream job. 👏
7. It Makes You Experience the World 🌍
Nothing opens up the mind like an eye-opening travel experience. Firsthand experience with people from outside your hometown and country (or even finding your way around a foreign place) can bring inspiration and growth compared to stagnating within your bubble.
While you can fly to cheap travel destinations on your own, international trips that are typically part of gap year programs provide you a safety net of support and structure (see CIEE or Carpe Diem Education). These arrangements make it easier for shy people or introverts to see the world with a purpose. ✈️
TIP: Traveling requires money, so save up for it through side hustles or part-time jobs and learn proper budgeting as early as you can.
You don’t have to have everything figured out by 22, but taking structured gap year programs can equip you with top-notch life skills and give you more clarity on the choices you’ll make.
While there are costs and challenges associated with these programs, the long-term rewards often outweigh the initial investment. So, take the leap and go for that gap year! 🙏
Gap Year Programs: Frequently Asked Questions
What are gap year programs and where do I find them?
Gap-year programs are structured experiences for students to take time off from traditional education (typically between high school and college) to explore personal interests through travel, volunteer experience, or work and internship opportunities.
Dedicated online platforms like Go Overseas can lead you to a program that matches your interests.
How much do gap year programs cost?
The cost of gap year programs can vary significantly and may reach around $30,000 due to airfare, housing, and other necessities. However, this really depends on the type of experience and location.
As you research and compare different options, try checking whether financial aid is available or save up for this experience as early as possible.
What should I consider when choosing a gap year program?
When choosing a gap year program, consider factors such as your interests, goals, budget, duration, and the type of experience you want (e.g. travel, volunteering, internships). Additionally, look into the program’s reputation, support services, and any potential impact on your future college plans.
How does taking a gap year affect college admissions?
Taking a gap year can positively affect college admissions, as many colleges appreciate the maturity and real-world experience gained during this time. It can also provide you with valuable insights into your interests, helping you make more informed decisions about your major and career path.