Who should take a gap year or semester?
You! Yes, that’s right, YOU!
Not convinced that taking a gap year is for you? Let’s talk about it.
There is a common misconception that students taking a gap year must be totally lost, rejected from their dream school, or fooling around with their parent’s money.
In reality, there are many unique individuals pursuing a gap experience for a variety of reasons.
A national survey from 2015 said the top reasons for taking a gap year were for
- Personal growth,
- Break from intense academics, and to
- Experience other cultures through travel.
Check out this infographic for additional data and benefits.
Whatever your reason is, the key is to be intentional. Making smart goals and deliberate plans will help you to maximize this unique opportunity to really learn about the world by living in it.
One of most incredible benefits of taking a gap year is time.
Not only will you have that time suddenly open to any plans you’d like, but you also have the summer before and after that year. In total, a gap year can be 15 months of opportunity at your fingertips!
That can be super exciting, but it can also be rather daunting… Just how do you plan 15 months of free time?
Luckily, there are some great tools out there to help you get started.
First, there are dozens of accredited programs (like AMIGOS!) that have already planned chunks of that time for you, simultaneously ensuring your health and safety.
Second, no matter what length program you choose, you can visit Gapyearly and the Gap Year Association websites for examples of how past students have structured their years. If you like podcasts, then you should definitely take a listen to Gap Year Radio for some inspiring stories from gap alumni and parents!
Our society has developed a strong pathway from high school to college to the workforce, and it can be hard to step off that path. But it is completely worth it considering what you’ll gain: a better understanding of yourself, a wider perspective of the world, and time to breathe or challenge yourself in a new way.
Are you ready to invest in yourself? Learn more about our Gap Association-accredited programs here!
