BRIEF SUMMARY
A gap year is an “experiential semester of year ‘on,’ typically taken between high school and college in order to deepen practical, professional, and personal awareness” (American Gap Year Association).
KEY POINTS
- The American Gap Year Association (AGA) emphasizes that a gap year is a year on, rather a year off, to combat the notion that students are taking a year-long vacation. from schooling.
- Because gap years often require some financial investment from the student, they are typically not an available option for everyone. While scholarships and stipends are increasingly available, the ability to take a gap year still implies a certain amount of privilege.
RESOURCES
SHARED WISDOM
- I’ve had multiple students participate in City Year gap programs. They have loved it and came out independent and ultra mature.
- While options for paid work aren’t as plentiful for high school graduates as they are for college graduates, students may be able to find paid employment. By spending the year working, students can save money for college, gain professional experience, and clarify what they want to study in college
- Year Up aims to provide low-income young adults with hands-on skills development and corporate internships for college credit. Job Corps offers training programs in over 100 technical areas.
CONTENT FEEDBACK
If you have suggestions, feedback, or resources, please email counselor1stop@inspiresuccess.org and let us know.
