Gap Year

Post-Secondary Planning

Why Take a Gap Year?

Students may take a gap year to "recharge", "discover themselves", or "take a break" before starting college. 

Many students who take a Gap Year believe...

  • College is expensive and a student should be ready to fully engage before going. 
  • An alternative learning experience will result in deeper engagement and purpose in learning. 
  • A gap year will give some students a break from privilage and their norm (they'll see the "real world"). 

When considering different Gap Year options, students should look for a program that is transformative and purposeful. According to Ethan Knight, executive director of the American Gap Association, a program should include:

  • Engagement in the real world (builds skills and perspectives)
  • Intentionality 
  • An effective and engaged mentor

(Taken from  "The Gap Year Gain" by W. Kent Barnds in Fall 2016's The Journal of College Admission, NACAC, Number 233)

Gap Year Resources