Do Gap Year Programs Look Good for College?

Many colleges and universities are increasingly open to students taking a gap year, particularly before entering as freshmen, but it largely depends on the individual’s objectives and how they use that time. It’s crucial to approach the decision of if and when to take this year off formal education with a clear understanding of potential benefits and challenges, ensuring that your gap year aligns with your long-term goals and doesn’t jeopardize any aspect of your post-educational plan.

Is Taking a Gap Year Good for College? 

One reason many universities are encouraging students to do gap years is that they’re coming to recognize research that’s been done indicating that gap years can actually help develop a number of practical and interpersonal skills, as well as demonstrate a student’s commitment to volunteerism, service, and global engagement. Gap year programs are an alternative to charging straight into another round of traditional schooling and can help you avoid burnout, broaden your perspective, and develop important life skills. 

Taking a gap year before entering college can be beneficial for many students, but it’s essential to consider your circumstances and goals. Here are some benefits and potential challenges to help you consider your options related to taking a gap year before college.

BENEFITS

• Personal Growth: A gap year can provide you with the opportunity to grow personally, learn about yourself, and develop a sense of independence.
• Academic Refresh: For students feeling burned out after high school, a gap year can provide a needed break, leading to increased motivation and focus when you start college.
• Experience & Skill Development: Whether through travel, work, or volunteering, a gap year can provide valuable life skills and experiences that can enrich your college experience and resume.
• Clarity: Some students are unsure about their major or career path. A gap year can provide clarity, ensuring you make an informed decision about your academic future.
• Cultural Exposure: For those traveling or volunteering abroad, the experience can lead to a more global perspective, which can be beneficial in our increasingly interconnected world.
• Financial Savings: Some students use the gap year to work and save money for college.

CONSIDERATIONS

• Loss of Academic Momentum: For some, taking a break can make it harder to get back into the rhythm of academic life.
• Peer Group: By delaying entry, a student may not start college with their high school peers, which can be a social adjustment.
• Financial Implications: Depending on what one does during a gap year, it can be costly.
• College Admissions Policies: While many colleges and universities are supportive of gap years, students need to ensure they understand any potential implications for admissions, scholarships, or financial aid.

To make the most of a gap year, it’s vital to have a plan that aligns with both your personal and academic goals- this might involve traveling, volunteering, an internship, work, or taking specialized courses. If you’ve already been accepted into a college, inquire about deferring your admission for a year. Most institutions are supportive, but it’s essential to communicate intentions and understand any conditions that will be unique to your current institution.

Impromptu teaching in the Himalayas. Photo by Arvin Dang, Instructor.

How to Present a Gap Year on Your College Application 

What if taking a gap year isn’t exactly the choice you want to make? Maybe you can’t afford college quite yet, need to help out at home, didn’t get in the first time around, or a million other reasons that happen to lots of people. That’s okay! Colleges understand that life happens, and applying for college after a gap year doesn’t have to hurt your admissions chances, just be honest and find a way to make the best of whatever the situation. 

Your gap year is bound to be filled with a wide array of incredible experiences and moments of personal growth whether you traveled abroad or didn’t leave your home state. The key to enhancing your college applications is to frame your time away in a way that demonstrates the transferrable skills and maturity that you’ve gained. When writing your admissions essay, and preparing for interviews, think about how elements of your gap year connect to your future higher education journey. 

A gap year can help you:

• Demonstrate responsibility and independence
• Deal with stress
• Understand what you want for your future
• Gain a new skill set (some programs allow you to earn college credits)
• Give back in a meaningful way

When college admissions officers evaluate gap-year students, they consider a range of questions and concerns to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the applicant’s experiences and motivations. Be prepared to speak to topics including:

• Purpose of your gap year and relevance to academic goals
• Skill development 
• Personal growth and reflection
• Continuity, motivation, and academic preparedness 
• Recommendations and references 

By addressing these questions and concerns, you can provide a holistic and compelling account of your experiences, showcasing your growth, initiative, and alignment with the college’s values and community. Clear and thoughtful responses will help admissions officers recognize the unique value that you as a gap-year student will bring to the college campus.

Where There Be Dragons strives to be responsible travelers regardless of the location of our programs. Exploring abroad, immersing yourself in a different culture, learning a new language, and seeing the world from a different perspective is a transformative experience that can help better prepare you for college. We’d love to see you on a trip! Give us a call at 800.982.9203 or contact us to learn more.