A gap year or a break year after high school is a short period of time typically students spend after high school before attending college or university. The time can be utilized by students for traveling, working, volunteering, or taking personal development programs to find other interests and gain life experience.
The tradition of a gap year between high school and college has been gaining popularity as more students realize the benefit of stepping outside the traditional academic path in order to gain practical skills, determine career goals, and broaden their vision prior to college.
Why Take a Gap Year After High School?
When considering a gap year after high school, it’s important to understand the reasons behind this decision. A gap year is not just for relaxation; it’s a reflective break that can contribute significantly to young people. The following are some of the most critical considerations for students to consider a gap year:
✅ Burnout Recovery – Following years of relentless schooling and the overwhelming stress of high school, students are often burnt out. A gap year is a welcome respite to rest, recover, and recharge their enthusiasm for future studies.
✅ Real-World Experience – For students seeking a flavor of the real world before they fully immerse themselves in college, a gap year can be a worthwhile experience. Through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs, students can gain hands-on skills, industry insights, and broader perspectives that will enhance their academic and professional development.
✅ Exploration of Personal Interests – High school graduates often use a gap year as a way to gain experience in their own hobbies and interests. Traveling, volunteering, or developing creative interests are all ways that this time off gives one an opportunity to try new things and learn more about themselves.
✅ Uncertain Career Path – It is often challenging for the majority of high school graduates to navigate the complexities of choosing a college major or career path. A gap year can give people the chance to experiment with different possibilities, become clear about their interests and abilities, and make more informed choices about their academic and career pursuits.
The Benefits of a Gap Year After High School
So what do students gain through taking a gap year after high school? The impact of this break year can be transformative, with lessons and experiences that shape future success. Here are some key benefits students can gain through a gap year:
✅ Development of Life Skills – During a gap year, students can gain valuable life skills such as independence, budgeting, and time management. These are essential for personal growth and will hold them in good stead when they encounter the issues of adulthood.
✅ Clarity and Focus Enhancement – A gap year can bring focus and clarity to students, and consequently, make their college years more productive. By taking a break from academics and experimenting with different paths, students can get a clearer idea of their passions and aspirations, and ultimately have a more focused academic experience.
✅ Strengthened College Applications – Practical experiences gained through a gap year can significantly strengthen a student’s college applications. Whether it is through internships, volunteering, or travel experiences, these special experiences show initiative, personal development, and a wider vision, which make the candidates more attractive to admissions committees.
✅ Broadened Worldview – Traveling, working, or volunteering during a gap year allows students to broaden their horizons. Being exposed to new cultures, ecosystems, and modes of thought can cultivate empathy, cultural awareness, and an open mind, all of which are vital to personal development and ultimate success.
✅ Renewed Motivation and Purpose – When students return from a gap year, they are more focused and have a clearer sense of what they want. The experience and self-reflection gained during the gap year can ignite passion, motivation, and determination, setting the stage for a successful transition to college and beyond.
Secure your college admission before the gap year with Global Town School
If you consider taking a gap year, you may want to secure your college admission before the gap year. It is more prudent to apply for colleges during your senior year. You do not want to spend your gap year going through the college application process.
College application process takes time, effort, and attention. It should be followed carefully to maximize your chance of getting accepted by colleges of your best choice and receiving financial aid and scholarships. Therefore, it is better to take care of that process during senior year so you can focus on what you do during your gap year.
To help students navigate this important process, Global Town School offers a dedicated College Coaching Program. Our program supports students during their senior year with personalized guidance through every step of the college application journey. From choosing the right colleges, preparing essays, building strong applications, to securing scholarships and financial aid, our experienced coaches are here to maximize each student’s success.
With our support, students can complete their applications with confidence, leaving them free to fully enjoy and grow during their gap year experience.
Most colleges allow accepted students to defer their admission for a year (sometimes even two). You’d typically apply, get accepted, then formally request a gap year or deferral before enrollment. After you get accepted to a college, you will request a deferral usually through a form or letter to admissions. You would need to explain your reasons (travel, work, personal development, etc.). Once you get confirmation of your deferral and secure your spot (you may need to pay a deposit or meet certain conditions), you can go into your gap year with a mind free of worry about the future.
There are, however, things to keep in mind. Not all colleges approve deferrals automatically. Some schools may have strict deadlines. Financial aid might not carry over — you may need to reapply for aid. Therefore, you should definitely talk to admissions of the college you will attend and find out about the deferral process specific to that college.
Popular Gap Year Activities
During a gap year, students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of enriching activities that can contribute to their personal and professional growth. Here are some popular gap year activities to consider:
✅ Volunteering locally or abroad – Giving back to the community through volunteer work provides valuable experiences, fosters empathy, and allows for meaningful contributions to society.
✅ Internships and part-time jobs – Engaging in internships or part-time jobs offers practical experience, helps develop relevant skills, and provides insights into different industries or professions.
✅ Traveling and cultural immersion – Exploring new destinations, immersing oneself in different cultures, and gaining international experiences can broaden perspectives and cultivate a greater understanding of the world.
✅ Online courses or certifications – Taking online courses or pursuing certifications in areas of interest can enhance knowledge, acquire new skills, and boost academic or career credentials.
During the gap year, you can even take college courses from Arizona State University through Global Town School (GTS), earning valuable credits and getting a head start on your college journey.
✅ Creative or entrepreneurial projects – Embarking on creative endeavors or entrepreneurial projects offers the opportunity for self-expression, innovation, and the development of problem-solving skills.
Is a Gap Year Right for You?
Before deciding whether to take a gap year, it’s important to ask yourself some key questions and consider the pros and cons based on your goals. Here are some key questions to ask yourself:
– What are my objectives?
Consider what you hope to achieve during a gap year, whether it’s personal growth, career exploration, or academic readiness.
– Do I have a structured plan?
Reflect on whether you have a well-thought-out plan for how you will spend your gap year, including activities, timelines, and potential challenges.
– How will it affect my academic or career path?
Evaluate the potential impact of taking a gap year on your long-term educational or professional goals.
– Am I seeking new experiences or self-discovery?
Determine whether you are motivated to broaden your experiences, explore different cultures, or gain a deeper understanding of your interests and passions.
– Is it a loss to skip a year of school for a gap year?
Not necessarily! If you’re concerned about missing out on a year of school, an alternative is to accelerate your high school education through Global Town School.
At GTS, motivated students can complete high school in two or three years instead of four, allowing you to start college alongside your peers without losing time.
You can still take advantage of the benefits of a gap year by using the saved year for personal growth, travel, internships, or specialized learning experiences.
